like for Japanese speakers — pronunciation and common errors
Pronunciation
Japanese phonology lacks the /l/ and /ɹ/ distinction, using a single alveolar flap /ɾ/ instead. Speakers often replace the initial liquid in 'like' /laɪk/ with this flap, resulting in /ɾaikɯ/.
Grammar
Japanese verbs such as 好き (suki) function as quasi-adjectives requiring the particle が (ga) for the object. This often causes learners to use 'like' with 'is' or 'to' (e.g., 'I am like tea' or 'I like to tea') by transferring the L1 adjectival structure.
Collocations
The Japanese phrase 気に入る (ki ni iru), meaning to like or be pleased with, literally translates to 'enter the feelings'. This can lead to the non-standard collocation 'like in my heart' or 'take a liking in' when expressing new-found preference.