English for Today by Ganiu Abisoye Bamgbose (Dr GAB)
LIKENESS or LIKING?
Likeness is the fact of being similar to another person or thing, especially in appearance. It is another word for resemblance. Example: She bears a strong likeness to her father.
Liking is the feeling that you like somebody or the enjoyment of something. It is also called fondness. Example: He has a liking for fast cars.
The Nigerian situation
Most Nigerians use “likeness” where “liking” should be used:
My likeness for her makes me overlook her shortcomings (nonstandard).
My liking for her makes me overlook her shortcomings (standard).
GAB
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