“I Will Like To” vs. “I Would Like To” – Correct Version Explained

We will often see the use of the phrase “I would like to” and may occasionally see the phrase “I will like to” – potentially making folks confused as to which phrase is the proper one to use. Therefore, this article will aim to explain the questions surrounding these phrases.

Is It “I Will Like To” Or “I Would Like To”?

Generally speaking, we will choose to use the phrase “I would like to”, as opposed to “I will like to”. This is because the two phrases cannot be used interchangeably and “I would like to” accurately describes something that we believe we “would” enjoy doing, in the future.

I Will Like To or I Would Like To

When we choose to use the term “would”, we are expressing a desire or an inclination to do something. This desire is happening currently, so we use the present tense of the verb, regardless of the fact that it refers to an activity that may take place in the future. This is also not something we’re entirely confident about and may hold slight reservations towards.

The phrase “I will like to” contains the term “will” which is considered definitive, or something we know will happen or that we will enjoy. While the use of this phrase is not as common, it does still exist. The use of this phrase would not technically come across as proper to a formal or professional English speaker.

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How Prevalent Is The Use Of “I Will Like To” Or “I Would Like To”?

As shown by Google Ngram Viewer, the use of the phrase “I will like to” is absolutely minuscule from the 1800s to the present day. On the other hand, the use of “I would like to” become more common from the mid-1800s to the present day.

I Will Like To or I Would Like To historical development

In terms of “I would like to” there have been some major fluctuations in the use of the past few decades, however, it is clearly the more commonly used phrase of the two options.

Is It Ever Correct To Use “I Will Like To”?

Some folks will argue that the use of “I will like to” is acceptable, however, this should only be considered the case in informal speech or any situation that doesn’t require professionalism. Saying “I will like to” just does not sound or come across as proper to a native English speaker. It can often come across as broken English or the misuse of words.

Examples Of How To Use “I Would Like To” And “I Will Like To” In A Sentence

We will now go over the following examples that highlight the correct and incorrect ways to use “I would like to” and “I will like to” in a sentence:

  • Incorrect: I will like to thank you all wholeheartedly for showing up to my fundraising event, as your support means the world to me.
  • Correct: I would like to thank you all wholeheartedly for showing up to my fundraising event, as your support means the world to me.
  • Incorrect: I will like to help you to build the new fence in your yard, as well as your new shed.
  • Correct: I would love to help you to build the new fence in your yard, as well as your new shed.
  • Incorrect: I will like to meet your whole family, as I think that is the next step in our relationship – don’t you?
  • Correct: I would love to meet your whole family, as I think that is the next step in our relationship – don’t you?
  • Incorrect: I will like the opportunity to perform as a part of your dance competition team, as I feel I have the proper skillset and could offer an abundance to the team.
  • Correct: I would like the opportunity to perform as a part of your dance competition team, as I feel I have the proper skillset and could offer an abundance to the team.
  • Incorrect: I will like to go out to dinner with you this evening at that new Mexican restaurant that just opened.
  • Correct: I would like to go out to dinner with you this evening at that new Mexican restaurant that just opened.

When Should I Use “I Want To” Instead Of “I Would Like To”?

We would use “I want to” when we wish to convey a very strong desire or intention to do something. This is because “I want to” is considered to be present continuous, meaning that it is not contingent or conditioned on anything – leaving no room for speculation on our decision.

In contrast, “I would like to” signifies something that is conditional. We often think that a statement containing the term “would”, will be closely followed by “if”. As previously mentioned, saying “I would” can convey a level of skepticism.

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