Like vs. Love

synonyms

Have you ever fallen in love? What do you think about these two? If you like someone, do you necessarily love him/her? Well, let's find out.

What Is Their Main Difference?

Both indicate having feelings for someone/something. In other words, we enjoy the presence of something/someone. However, 'like' is not as strong as 'love', and it can fade away after some time. 'Love', on the other hand, is more about having strong feelings for someone and most psychologists agree with the fact that when you 'love' someone, he/she becomes a part of your world and your identity.

Differences

As mentioned above, 'like' is used when someone feels good when doing something or interacting with someone. It does not necessarily happen among people romantically involved. It can be towards food, plants, friends, colleagues, etc. Look at the examples below:

I like rainy weather generally.

Josephine likes to come home after work and take a nap.

'Love', however, mainly refers to having a strong emotion towards someone and it is mainly associated with romantically involved people. It can also be between spiritual beings like the love God has for humans, etc. Psychologists believe that when we love someone, we unconsciously feel one with our significant other. Being in love involves commitment, altruism, etc. Take a look at the following examples:

'I love you' was always her catch phrase.

Unfortunately, nothing is permanent; not even love.

Similarities

Both refer to taking pleasure in doing something or being with someone. Check out the examples below:

A : When did I ever say I am in love with you?

B : When you were asleep.

My daughter likes chocolate so much.

Are They Interchangeable?

If we use them interchangeably, the reader will get confused. 'Love' is stronger than 'like'. Compare:

✓ I think I have a crush on my classmate. I like her a lot.

X I think I have a crush on my classmate. I love her a lot.

If you have a crush on someone, you do not love them. You enjoy being with them.

Comments