Trivial, but so annoying !

[dance2drop]

Yes, I know there are far more urgent and appropriate things that make us cross, but my gripe is a small word that is thrust under our noses every time somebody is interviewed - whether upper class, middle or lower !

That word is "LIKE" - Used out of context, is meaningless and useless. I like something - yes, correct.

What isn't correct is when it is shoved into every few words in a sentence. I was like going to the cinema. I told him what was he like doing.

It makes my blood boil. I suppose this is another Americanism that has crept into this country.

I am "like" going to "like" sign off now"

Mrs Angry, Eastbourne

[steevo]

I am American and my guess is it's not so much another Americanism to creep in as it is a time zone delay to drink it down. And, if you haven't experienced mass appeal of the "so", either when initiating a response or the added emphasis for great degree, expect further change to your dialect. Why? Because you're British

[dance2drop]

No offence meant by my American reference - I hope !

[steevo]

No offense taken I've enjoyed your participation. I have trouble stomaching "like" too, I'd like to tell a lot of adults to grow up but it seems they're the type who are not inclined. And I've never thought of it as something relative to the US in particular but that wouldn't surprise me   

[Teddy Bear]

I'm from London. and have also lived in the States for quite a few years. I can recognise the use of 'like' in the context you describe from the East End of London. 'You know' is another similar colloquialism. One can often hear 'you know what I mean like...'.

[charmbrights]

Here in Wales, look you, we would nef-fer insert a pointless word or phrase, indeed to goodness.

[Teddy Bear]