English Grammar

How and what ... like?

We use how to ask about things that change – for example, people’s health and moods. We use what … like? to ask about things that do not change – for example, people’s looks and character.

• ‘How is she?’ ‘She is very well.’
• What is she like? She is a bit shy. (NOT How is she?)
• What does she look like? She is short, dark and pretty.

We often use how to ask about people’s reactions to their experiences.

• ‘How was the film?’ ‘Not bad.’
• ‘How is your new job?’ ‘Quite interesting.’

What …like? is also possible in cases like these.

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