Likewise
Academic discourse marker used to connect ideas
Littéralement: In a like manner
Use `likewise` to politely mirror someone's positive sentiment or to connect two similar ideas in writing.
En 15 secondes
- A polite way to say 'me too' or 'the same to you'.
- Commonly used as a one-word response to greetings and compliments.
- Functions as a transition word in formal writing to link ideas.
Signification
Think of it as a verbal mirror. It is a quick, polite way to say 'the same applies to me' or 'I feel the same way' without repeating the whole sentence.
Exemples clés
3 sur 6Meeting a new client
It was a pleasure meeting you today. Likewise, I look forward to our partnership.
It was a pleasure meeting you today. Likewise, I look forward to our partnership.
Texting a friend about plans
I'm so ready for the weekend! Likewise! Let's grab drinks.
I'm so ready for the weekend! Likewise! Let's grab drinks.
A formal dinner party
I've truly enjoyed the evening. Likewise, the host was wonderful.
I've truly enjoyed the evening. Likewise, the host was wonderful.
Contexte culturel
The term 'likewise' is a staple of 'polite etiquette' in English-speaking countries. It originated as a way to avoid repetitive speech, which was seen as a sign of poor education. Today, it is the standard response to social pleasantries, helping people navigate small talk with ease.
The 'Safe' Social Play
If someone says something nice and you're too nervous to think of a clever reply, just say `Likewise`. It's never wrong in a positive context.
Avoid the 'Love' Trap
If someone says 'I love you' for the first time, saying `likewise` is a one-way ticket to a very awkward breakup. Stick to 'I love you too' there!
En 15 secondes
- A polite way to say 'me too' or 'the same to you'.
- Commonly used as a one-word response to greetings and compliments.
- Functions as a transition word in formal writing to link ideas.
What It Means
Likewise is your ultimate shortcut for agreement. It tells the other person that their sentiment is shared. If someone says something nice, you reflect it back. It functions like a sophisticated 'me too.' It keeps the conversation flowing smoothly. You don't have to repeat their exact words. It shows you are listening and engaged. It is efficient and elegant.
How To Use It
You can use it as a one-word reply. This is very common in social greetings. For example, if someone says Nice to meet you, you just say Likewise. You can also use it to connect two similar ideas. In writing, it acts like a bridge. You might say, The first half was great; likewise, the second half excelled. It works as both an adverb and a transition word. Just make sure the context is positive or neutral.
When To Use It
Use it when someone pays you a compliment. It is perfect for professional networking events. Use it in emails to wish someone a good week. It works well when you agree with an opinion in a meeting. If a friend says they are excited for a movie, likewise fits perfectly. It makes you sound polished and confident. It is a great tool for making a good first impression.
When NOT To Use It
Avoid using it in very emotional or heavy situations. If someone says I am so sorry for your loss, do not say likewise. That would be very awkward and cold. Also, avoid it if the other person is complaining. If they say I hate this rain, saying likewise is okay, but me too feels more natural. Don't use it if you want to emphasize your own unique feelings. It is a word of mirroring, not original expression.
Cultural Background
This word has been around since the 15th century. It comes from combining like and wise (meaning 'way' or 'manner'). In English-speaking cultures, we value politeness but also brevity. Likewise satisfies both needs perfectly. It is especially popular in the UK and US in professional circles. It is the 'safe' choice when you aren't sure how formal to be. It bridges the gap between stiff formality and casual slang.
Common Variations
If likewise feels too fancy, try Same here. If you are texting a close friend, Ditto is a fun alternative. In very formal writing, you might use Similarly or In the same vein. For a very casual vibe, just go with Me too. Some people also use The feeling is mutual for more emotional weight. Each variation changes the 'temperature' of the conversation.
Notes d'usage
In conversation, 'likewise' is almost always a standalone response to a greeting. In writing, it requires a semicolon or a new sentence to function as a transition.
The 'Safe' Social Play
If someone says something nice and you're too nervous to think of a clever reply, just say `Likewise`. It's never wrong in a positive context.
Avoid the 'Love' Trap
If someone says 'I love you' for the first time, saying `likewise` is a one-way ticket to a very awkward breakup. Stick to 'I love you too' there!
The 'Ditto' Alternative
In the 90s, the word `Ditto` became a huge casual alternative to `likewise` because of the movie 'Ghost'. Use it for a nostalgic, casual vibe.
Exemples
6It was a pleasure meeting you today. Likewise, I look forward to our partnership.
It was a pleasure meeting you today. Likewise, I look forward to our partnership.
Here, it mirrors the pleasure of the meeting and adds a professional touch.
I'm so ready for the weekend! Likewise! Let's grab drinks.
I'm so ready for the weekend! Likewise! Let's grab drinks.
In text, it's a fast way to agree with an enthusiastic sentiment.
I've truly enjoyed the evening. Likewise, the host was wonderful.
I've truly enjoyed the evening. Likewise, the host was wonderful.
Used to agree with a compliment about the event.
I think I need a vacation. Likewise, preferably on a planet with no Wi-Fi.
I think I need a vacation. Likewise, preferably on a planet with no Wi-Fi.
The speaker uses it to agree and then adds a funny exaggeration.
I've always valued our friendship. Likewise, you've been a great support.
I've always valued our friendship. Likewise, you've been a great support.
A sincere way to return an emotional sentiment.
Have a great day! Likewise, talk soon.
Have a great day! Likewise, talk soon.
The most common social use, returning a standard well-wish.
Teste-toi
Choose the best response to the following greeting.
Person A: 'It was wonderful to see you again!' Person B: '___!'
`Likewise` is the perfect way to return the sentiment of it being 'wonderful to see someone.'
Complete the sentence to connect two similar professional goals.
We aim to increase our market share; ___, we want to improve customer loyalty.
`Likewise` is used here as a transition to show that both goals are similar in importance.
🎉 Score : /2
Aides visuelles
Formality Spectrum of 'Likewise'
Used with friends, but 'Me too' is more common.
I'm hungry. Likewise.
Perfect for social greetings and acquaintances.
Nice to meet you. Likewise.
Used as a transition in essays or business reports.
The costs rose; likewise, the risks increased.
Where to use 'Likewise'
After a compliment
You did a great job! Likewise!
Professional Introduction
Pleasure to meet you. Likewise.
Formal Writing
Linking two similar facts.
Holiday Wishes
Merry Christmas! Likewise!
Questions fréquentes
10 questionsIt is neutral to formal. You can use it with your boss or a stranger, but it might sound a bit stiff with your best friend compared to same here.
Yes, especially in writing. For example: Likewise, the second study confirmed the results.
Me too is very casual and focuses on the person. Likewise focuses on the action or sentiment being similar.
Technically yes, but it's rare. If someone says I'm tired, you can say likewise, but it sounds slightly more formal than necessary.
It is used equally in both! It is a universal English term found in almost every dialect.
No, it is strictly an adverb or a conjunction/discourse marker.
It is pronounced 'LIKE-wise'. The emphasis is on the first syllable.
Yes, it is a great transition word to show that two points are similar.
That is unlikely for native speakers, but if they look confused, just follow up with I mean, me too!
No, just say likewise by itself. Adding 'to you' is redundant and sounds non-native.
Expressions liées
Same here
Ditto
Similarly
The feeling is mutual
Correspondingly
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