Like

A History of the World's Most Hated (and Misunderstood) Word

Megan C. Reynolds

$32.99

Board book

Forthcoming
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English

HARPER360
01 July 2025

linguistics; Sociolinguistics; Grammar, syntax; Literary studies: from c 1900 -; Communication studies; Popular culture

A comprehensive and thought-provoking investigation into one of the most polarizing words in the English language.

Few words in the English language are as misunderstood as “like.” Indeed, excessive use of this word is a surefire way to make those who pride themselves on propriety, both grammatical and otherwise, feel compelled to issue correctives.

But what the detractors of this word fail to understand is its true function and versatility—as an exclamation, a filler of space, a means of subtle emphasis, and more. “Like” may have started out as slang, but it is now an intrinsic component of fun, serious, and altogether nurturing communication. And like any colloquialism, the word endears the speaker to its audience; a conversation full of likes feels more casual, despite its content.

In this book, culture writer and editor for Dwell magazine Megan C. Reynolds takes us through the unique etymology and usage of this oft-reviled word, highlighting how it is often used to undermine people who are traditionally seen as having less status in society—women, younger people, people from specific subcultures—and how, if thought about differently, it might open up a new way of communication and validation. Written in a breezy yet informative and engaging style, this is a must-read for anyone who considers themselves a grammarian, a lover of language, and an advocate for the marginalized in discussions of cultural capital, power, and progress.

By: Megan C. Reynolds
Imprint: HARPER360
Country of Publication: United States
Dimensions: Height: 210mm, Width: 140mm,
Weight: 454g
ISBN: 9780063415287
ISBN 10: 0063415283
Pages: 256
Publication Date: 01 July 2025
Audience: General/trade , ELT Advanced
Format: Board book
Publisher's Status: Forthcoming

Megan C. Reynolds is an editor at Dwell magazine, and previously worked at the now defunct Jezebel and The Billfold. She’s written for Buzzfeed, the New York Times, Elle, Gawker, Bustle, Vulture, and other outlets. Megan was also the co-host of the short-lived, celebrity-gossip focused podcast Dirtcast. She lives in New York City.

Reviews for Like: A History of the World's Most Hated (and Misunderstood) Word

""Like is a fun and fascinating book that will leave its readers with delight, curiosity, and hope. Anyone who has ever been criticized for using this word, or has censured it themselves, needs not only read Megan Reynolds’s work but shout it from the rooftops."" — Amanda Montell, New York Times-bestselling author of The Age of Magical Overthinking and Cultish ""Valuable books have been written about 'ain’t,' 'okay,' 'bullshit,' and, as the title of Jesse Sheidlower’s classic puts it, 'the F-word.' We can add to that list Megan Reynold’s Like, a witty, informative, and thankfully non-judgmental deep dive into that beleaguered but extremely useful word."" — Ben Yagoda, author of How to Not Write Bad ""Reynolds smartly and lightheartedly shares various scenarios in which she feels using the word 'like' in conversation offers an advantage. … Convincing evidence for offering 'like' another chance in the American English vernacular."" — Kirkus Reviews