“I would like to is the grammatically correct and polite phrase to express desires or requests, while I will like to is rarely used and often considered incorrect.”
One of the most common questions in English grammar is whether to say “I will like to” or “I would like to.” The confusion between these two phrases often leads to mistakes, especially for non-native speakers. The difference between these two forms might seem subtle, but it significantly affects the meaning and tone of your communication. Understanding the proper usage of “I will like to” versus “I would like to” is crucial in both casual and professional conversations, as it impacts clarity and correctness.
I Will Like To or I Would Like To: What’s the Right Choice?
Is it “I will like to” or “I would like to”? The answer is simpler than you think!
Whether you’re making a request, expressing a preference, or talking about future actions, knowing when to use “I would like to” or “I will like to” is key to sounding natural and clear. In this post, we’ll break down the difference and explain the proper contexts for each phrase.
This blog post will guide you through the rules, explanations, and examples of how to properly use “I will like to” and “I would like to.” You’ll gain insight into common misconceptions, correct usage, and practical applications in both professional and casual settings. Let’s dive into the details so you can improve your English skills today!
Understanding the Basics
Before diving into the nuances, it’s important to understand the basic meaning behind “I will like to” and “I would like to.” These two phrases, though similar in appearance, serve different purposes in English grammar. “I would like to” is a polite, formal way to express a desire or a preference, while “I will like to” is less commonly used and often considered grammatically incorrect in certain contexts.
Grammar Rules
The difference between “I will like to” and “I would like to” can be traced back to verb tenses and the use of modals. When we use “I would like to,” we are expressing a polite wish, desire, or request. “I will like to” suggests a future possibility or willingness, but it is not the standard form for expressing preference.
Examples of Usage
- “I will like to”: “I will like to attend the meeting tomorrow.” (Incorrect)
- “I would like to”: “I would like to attend the meeting tomorrow.” (Correct)
- “I would like to”: “I would like to have a coffee, please.” (Correct)
“I Will Like To” – Common Misconception
The phrase “I will like to” is a frequent error in English, especially when learners try to express their preferences about future actions. This mistake happens because learners often mistakenly think that adding “will” to a verb indicates future intent. However, “I will like to” is not the right way to express a desire or preference. It is grammatically awkward and doesn’t align with standard English usage.
Explanation
The verb “like” in the future tense, as in “will like,” doesn’t work when you are talking about a desire or preference. “Would like” is the appropriate construction for this purpose because it is a polite form of “want.” In formal English, we use “I would like to” to politely express an intention or request, while “I will like to” would imply that your liking will occur in the future, which sounds unnatural.
Examples of Incorrect Usage
- “I will like to go to the store later.” (Incorrect)
- “She will like to join us for dinner.” (Incorrect)
- “They will like to talk to you after the meeting.” (Incorrect)
“I Would Like To” – Correct Usage
“I would like to” is the grammatically correct phrase to use when expressing a desire or preference. This construction uses the modal verb “would,” which softens the request or statement, making it more polite. It is widely used in both formal and informal contexts to express what someone wants or prefers.
Explanation
The modal verb “would” is used to express politeness, especially when making requests or offering things. “I would like to” is also a more neutral way of indicating a future preference. It doesn’t imply certainty, but rather a polite suggestion or desire.
Examples of Correct Usage
- “I would like to visit the museum tomorrow.” (Correct)
- “I would like to have the chicken salad for lunch.” (Correct)
- “She would like to join us for the event.” (Correct)
Comparative Analysis
The key difference between “I will like to” and “I would like to” lies in their tone, meaning, and grammatical correctness. Understanding this difference is essential in avoiding common mistakes and ensuring your English is both clear and polite.
When to Use Each Phrase
- Use “I would like to” when expressing a wish or desire. It is the grammatically correct and polite choice.
- “I would like to speak with the manager.”
- “I would like to go home now.”
- “They would like to help you with the project.”
- “I will like to” is rarely used, except in very specific cases, such as when describing a future situation in the context of a certainty.
- “I will like to work with you on this project in the future.” (Rare usage)
Impact on Communication
Using “I would like to” is seen as more courteous and appropriate in professional settings, while “I will like to” can sound odd or informal in most contexts. Correct usage ensures better communication, conveying politeness and respect.
Common Errors and How to Avoid Them
List of Frequent Mistakes
- “I will like to” is used instead of “I would like to.”
- Using “will like” to express a preference in the future.
- Misunderstanding the use of modals in polite requests.
Tips for Correct Usage
- Remember that “I would like to” is a polite and correct phrase for expressing desire or preference.
- Avoid using “I will like to” when expressing a wish, as it sounds unnatural.
- Use “would like” for both future intentions and polite requests.
Practical Applications
In Professional Settings
In the workplace, using “I would like to” is key to maintaining professionalism and politeness. It’s the go-to phrase for expressing a request or offering something.
Examples
- “I would like to schedule a meeting with you next week.”
- “I would like to discuss the report when you have time.”
- “I would like to thank you for your help on this project.”
In Casual Conversations
“I would like to” is also commonly used in informal settings, though it might sound more formal than simply saying “I want to.” However, “I will like to” should be avoided in both contexts.
Examples
- “I would like to watch a movie tonight.”
- “Would you like to join us for coffee?”
- “I would like to go to the park tomorrow.”
Summary and Key Takeaways
Recap of Main Points
- “I will like to” is grammatically incorrect in most cases and should be avoided.
- The correct and polite phrase is “I would like to” when expressing desires, preferences, or making requests.
- Use “I would like to” in both formal and informal settings to maintain clear and polite communication.
Final Tips
Always remember: for polite requests and expressions of desire, use “I would like to”. “I will like to” is seldom correct and should be replaced with “I would like to” in nearly all instances. Pay attention to these details, and your English will sound more natural and professional.
Key Insight
1. Is “I will like to” ever correct?
“I will like to” is generally incorrect for expressing a preference. It may be used in rare situations where future intent is emphasized, but it’s not common.
2. When should I use “I would like to”?
Use “I would like to” when making a polite request, offering something, or expressing a preference. It’s suitable for both formal and informal settings.
3. Can I use “I will like to” in casual conversations?
While “I will like to” is sometimes heard informally, it is not grammatically correct. Stick to “I would like to” for clear communication.
4. Can I replace “I would like to” with “I want to”?
Yes, “I want to” is less formal and more direct than “I would like to.” Use “I want to” for casual contexts and “I would like to” for polite expressions.
5. Are there other phrases similar to “I would like to”?
Yes, phrases like “I would love to” or “I’d be happy to” can be used to express desire or willingness in a polite way.
Conclusion
In conclusion, “I would like to” is the grammatically correct and polite form to use when expressing a preference or making a request. Avoid “I will like to,” as it is not typically used in standard English for these purposes.
Understanding this distinction will help you communicate more effectively, whether you’re in a professional environment or having a casual conversation. By following these guidelines, you’ll improve your clarity, formality, and politeness in everyday language use.

Hi, I’m Zadie Smith: I’m dedicated to helping others master English through practical tips. I enjoy making complex ideas simple and accessible for everyone.