October 4th, 2010 
Admin Question by L.: I am confused using “like” as a verb.Can I use “like” this way:”I like an apple” instead of ” I like apples”?
Please explain in details the grammar behind using plural form of objects when using “like”. I like cats. If possible give examples too. I am a second language speaker so it’s a little difficult to understand. Thanks everyone for your help. =)
Best answer:
Answer by JaneB
In English, we say “I like apples” to show that, in general we like that fruit.
If you said “I like an apple” it sounds a little weird and makes it seems as though there is a particular single apple that you like! The only way it works is if the sentence continues, for example,: I like an apple with my dinner
What do you think? Answer below!
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the plural version of things would be the noun in general. So if you like apples, you like to eat apples in general. If you like “this apple,” you like the apple you are eating.
If you like “your cat” then you like a specific cat, Fluffy. If you like “cats” then you like all cats, in general. Make sense?
In this case don’t try to say “I like an apple” Just say “I would like an apple” OR “I like apples”
OK?
Another example:
I really like dogs. They are always nice to me.
I feel safe when dogs are around.
OR:
I feel safe when my dog is near me.
He always barks when there are strangers around.
If it was one dog you liked say this: I like that dog. OR I like this dog OR I like your dog.
Example: You look like my sister. You both have the same color eyes & hair.
It looks like it’s going to rain.
(there are several ways to use “like”)
Hope I helped you!
We use both plural and singular nouns after “like.”
The meanings may be slightly different:
- “I like apples” is a generalized remark
- “I like an apple” is a more specific observation — “I like an apple now and then in my lunchbox, especially with a turkey sandwich.”
Here the songwriter switches back and forth between single and plural objects of “like” without any problem
I like New York in June, how about you?
I like a Gershwin tune, how about you?
I love a fireside when a storm is due,
I like potato chips, moonlight
And motor trips, how about you?
I like Jack Benny’s jokes, to a degree
I love the common folks, that includes me
I like to window shop on 5th Avenue
I like banana splits, late supper at the Ritz
How about you?
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=w4TU8Llk3vQ&feature=related