Can we use like instead would like

Question

Hello!Can we use like instead would like in this example?I would like a cup of tea.I like a cup of tea.Is there any difference/nuance in the meaning between would like and would love?  For example if we replace  would like with would love in the example above.Thanks!

Deadrat · Accepted Answer

The present tense "like" indicates a current and ongoing situation:

A. How do you end your suppers?
B. I like a cup of tea.

This means that you usually enjoy tea at meal's end.

The subjunctive "would like" indicates a polite request.

A. May I get get you a drink?
B. I would like a cup of tea.

This means "If you're offering a beverage, what I'd like is tea." It can also express a wish in the absence of an offer.

"Love" and "like" mean much different things when we're talking about people as the objects of our affection. Tea, not so much. If you say "I would love a cup of tea." you're indicating that you would like that drink a lot.

Fivejedjon · Answer

deadratThe subjunctive "would like" indicates a polite request

I agree with everything else you said in your response, but I don't agree that 'would like' is a subjunctive. 'Would' is a modal that sometimes co-occurs with subjunctive forms, as in I wouldn't do that if I were you.

Deadrat · Answer

Point taken.  Blame it on inferior American pedagogy.

Anonymous · Answer

Thanks!

Can we use like instead would like

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