ENGLISH
REFERENCE

feel like sth

phr. v..
A2 Elementary Oxford

phr. v.. To want to have or do something at a particular moment. You use this to express a desire for something, like a snack or an activity.

phr. v.. A multi-word verb expressing a desire for something (a noun object) or to do something (a gerund). It is typically used for spontaneous inclinations.


SIMPLE

I feel like a cup of coffee.

CONTEXTUAL

It's a beautiful day; I feel like going for a walk.

COMPLEX

After a long week of intense negotiations, she didn't feel like attending the formal gala, preferring a quiet evening instead.

Particles
like
Separability
inseparable
Pattern
feel + like + object/gerund
Usage

This phrase is followed by a noun (what you want) or a verb in its -ing form (what you want to do).

Teaching tip

Contrast with 'want'; 'feel like' is often softer, more spontaneous, and less direct than 'want', which can sound more demanding.

Pitfall

I feel like to watch a movie.I feel like watching a movie.After 'feel like', use the -ing form of a verb (a gerund), not the 'to' infinitive.

© 2026 English Reference