Definition

Verb phrase: 1. To have a desire or inclination for something: To want to do a specific activity or to want a specific thing. 2. To perceive oneself as being similar to or in the state of something else: To have a sensation or impression that one is a certain way or in a certain condition. (Note: This second meaning is less common in the primary "desire" sense but is a valid interpretation of the phrase's literal construction.)

Usage and Examples

• Expressing a desire for an activity (followed by a gerund - verb+ing):

  • I feel like watching a movie tonight.
  • She didn't feel like going to the party.
  • Do you feel like taking a walk?

• Expressing a desire for a thing or substance (followed by a noun phrase):

  • I really feel like a cup of coffee.
  • He said he felt like pizza for dinner.

• Expressing a self-perceived state or similarity (followed by a noun phrase):

  • After running the marathon, I felt like a champion.
  • With this old robe on, I feel like a king.

Advanced Usage and Nuances

• The phrase is informal and conversational. In more formal writing, alternatives such as "would like to," "desire to," or "have an inclination to" are often preferred.
• It often conveys a spontaneous or current emotional/physical craving rather than a long-term plan.
• The question "What do you feel like?" is a common way to ask about preferences for food or activity.
  • A: "What do you feel like for lunch?" B: "I feel like sushi."

Variants and Related Words

• Feel (verb): To experience an emotion or physical sensation.
• Crave (verb): To have a very strong desire for something.
• Fancy (verb - chiefly British): To want something or want to do something.

Synonyms

• Want to
• Would like to
• Have a mind to
• Be in the mood for

Related Phrases and Idioms

• Feel up to: To have the energy or ability to do something.
  • I don't feel up to going out tonight; I'm too tired.
• Feel as if / Feel as though: Used to describe a subjective impression or sensation.
  • I feel as though I've been here before. (This is closer to the "self-perceived state" meaning of "feel like.")

Verb

1. have an inclination for something or some activity
   • I feel like staying in bed all day
   • I feel like a cold beer now