We use the First Conditional to talk about future events that are likely to happen.
You probably know that the verb like can be followed by either the -ing form or by an infinitive.
- I like going to the cinema
- I like to see all the latest movies.
Often these two forms mean exactly the same thing but there can be a difference between them. When we use like to there is an ide that we think is is a good idea, even if not pleasant, and it is probably a regular action.
- I like to visit the dentist twice a year.
- I like my children to be in bed by nine.
- I like to keep fit.
We use would like to to make polite offers and requests.
- Would you like to have lunch one day next week?
- I'd like to have your opinion.
Used as a preposition, like often means 'similar' or 'typical'..
- Like me, you probably are a bit shocked by his behaviour.
- What is Harry like? Is he conceited?
- You look like you need to sit down.
- I want to do something exciting - like bungee jumping.
- It is just like him to be late.
In informal American English, like is used to mean 'as if'. (Some people think it is 'incorrect' but you will certainly hear it a lot.)
- I feel like I am a princess.
- It was like I was back in the sixties.
Don't confuse that with feel like meaning 'a desire to do someting'.
- I feel like going out for a meal.
- I don't feel like driving any more today.
Unusually for a preposition, like can have the adverbs quite or rather in front of it.
- It is quite like old times.
- It is rather like it was before we had computers.
