Like Doing vs. Like To Do
After “like,” both -ing and to-infinitive constructions are standard and often close in meaning. The usual distinction is one of emphasis, not a strict one-form-only grammar rule.
Both are standard. “Like doing” often emphasizes enjoyment of the activity; “like to do” can emphasize a habit, preference or chosen practice.
Key details
Choose the right form
| Meaning / situation | Form / construction | Decision |
|---|---|---|
| activity/experience itself in focus | like + -ing | Natural when enjoyment or the activity itself is emphasized. |
| habit, preference, or chosen practice | like + to-infinitive | Natural when the preferred practice is in focus. |
| polite desire with would | would like + to-infinitive | Use the infinitive after “would like.” |
Quick tests
Meaning / construction test
Is the activity or experience itself the main focus?
If yes: “Like + -ing” is often natural.
If no: Use “like + to-infinitive” when the sentence foregrounds a habit or chosen practice.
Caveat: Both main patterns are standard; context often affects nuance rather than basic grammaticality.
Examples
I like walking before breakfast.
The activity itself is in focus.
I like to check the locks before bed.
The sentence presents a preferred habit.
I would like to speak with the manager.
“Would like” takes the to-infinitive in this use.
Further guidance
Infinitive Emphasis
Use like + to-infinitive when the sentence emphasizes a habit, preference or chosen way of doing something.
Ing Emphasis
Use like + -ing when the activity or experience itself is in focus, often including enjoyment.
Would Boundary
With would like, standard guidance uses the to-infinitive rather than the -ing form.
Sources and evidence
Sources are shown with the role they play in this guide. Historical or style-sensitive claims are kept within the evidence boundary described above.
- Hate, like, love and prefer — Cambridge Grammar (opens in a new tab)Cambridge Dictionary / English Grammar Today · Hate, like, love and prefer with -ing or to-infinitive, including emphasis, habit and regional notes