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liking

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take a liking to (someone or something)

To have or develop a fondness for or inclination toward something or someone; to be attracted to or desire someone or something. I never used to like onions as a kid, but I've taken a liking to them as I've grown older. I think Jennifer has taken a liking to my friend Tommy; I must try to set them up on a date!

See also: liking, take

like the sound of (one's) own voice

To enjoy hearing oneself talk because one is pompous and/or self-centered. Boy, he really likes the sound of his own voice—I didn't think he would ever stop talking! I know you like the sound of your own voice, but can I please say something now?

See also: like, of, own, sound, voice

take a fancy to someone or something

 and take a liking to someone or something; take a shine to someone or something

to develop a fondness or a preference for someone or something. John began to take a fancy to Sally late last August at the picnic. I've never taken a liking to cooked carrots. I think my teacher has taken a shine to me.

See also: fancy, take

to someone's liking

fitting someone's personal preferences. l had my house painted, but the job was not to my liking. Large meals with lots of fat are not to Bob's liking.

See also: liking

take a fancy to somebody/something

to start liking someone or wanting something very much I think my sister has taken a fancy to you.

See also: fancy, take

take a fancy to

Also, take a liking or shine to . Be attracted to someone or something, as in They took a fancy to spicy foods after their Mexican vacation, or I'm hoping he'll take a liking to the water, now that we have a cottage on a lake, or We think Bill's taken a shine to Betsy. The first term was first recorded in 1541, the first variant in 1570, and the last, a colloquialism, in 1850.

See also: fancy, take