Written by:
Jan 29, 2025

How to say ‘I love you’ in Spanish and other romantic phrases

Introduction

If you want to express heartfelt feelings in Spanish, learning to say "I love you" is a great start! "I love you" in Spanish is expressed as “te quiero” or “te amo”. While both phrases convey love, they can have different connotations. In this article, we'll explore these two ways to say “I love you” in Spanish, and consider other romantic phrases you can use in your relationship. Whether you're looking to impress your boyfriend or girlfriend, or simply want to add romance to your conversations, this guide will help you navigate Spanish expressions of love.

What to say in a relationship

In romantic relationships, communication is key. To truly express your feelings, it’s important to know the right phrases to use. Here are the two primary ways to say "I love you" in Spanish:

Te quiero

This phrase means "I care for you" and is often used among friends, family, and romantic partners. It's less intense than te amo, making it suitable for various relationships.

Te amo

This phrase translates to "I love you" in a more profound, romantic sense. It’s often used in serious relationships and signifies a deeper emotional commitment.

Understanding these nuances will help you choose the right phrase for the moment. If you're wondering how to say “I love you” to your boyfriend or girlfriend, both options can be appropriate depending on your feelings and the relationship stage.

Spanish love quotes for him

Want to discover more ways to express your feelings for your boyfriend? Here are some other romantic Spanish phrases you can use:

  • Eres mi todo. (You are my everything.)
  • Siempre estás en mi corazón. (You are always in my heart.)
  • Te necesito a mi lado. (I need you by my side.)
  • Eres la razón por la que sonrío. (You are the reason I smile.)

Surprising him with these phrases will definitely make him feel special, especially if you learned them just for him. Spend some time practicing the pronunciation, and you’ll know how to say “I love you” to your boyfriend in a variety of romantic ways. 

Spanish love quotes for her

Learning Spanish for your girlfriend? We’ve got you covered with these sweet phrases: 

  • Eres la luz de mi vida. (You are the light of my life.)
  • Sin ti, no soy nada. (Without you, I am nothing.)
  • Tu amor me hace fuerte.(Your love makes me strong.)
  • Eres un sueño hecho realidad. (You are a dream come true.)

Learning these romantic things to say in Spanish can deepen your relationship. If you’ve learned them specifically to sunrise a Spanish-speaking partner, it also shows that you care about them, their language, and their culture. 

Other romantic phrases in Spanish 

Besides saying "I love you" in Spanish, there are many other romantic Spanish phrases you can share with your partner:

  • Abrazos y besos. (Hugs & kisses)
  • Te extraño. (I miss you)
  • Eres hermoso/a. (You are beautiful/handsome)
  • Tú y yo para siempre. (You and I forever)

These phrases will help you build a stronger connection and make your everyday conversations more affectionate. Make sure you learn a few of them so you’ll know different ways to say “I love you” in Spanish.

Final note

With this guide, you'll be well-equipped to express your love in Spanish. Whether you're just starting to explore romance in the language or you're already conversational, these phrases will help you connect with your loved ones in a meaningful way. Remember, love knows no language, but learning how to express your feelings can help love thrive! To learn more about expressing love in different languages, check out our tips on writing a love letter in another language.

FAQ

Is there a difference between te amo and te quiero?

Yes, te amo means a deeper, more serious love, often used in romantic relationships, while te quiero can express affection among friends and family.

How do you say “I love you” in Spanish slang?

In Mexican Spanish slang, people might say te quiero un chingo (I love you a lot) in informal contexts, or te quiero un montón in European Spanish.

Does mi amor mean “I love you”? 

No, mi amor translates to “my love”. It can also be used as a term of endearment for loved ones.

Is te quiero mucho “I love you”?

Yes, te quiero mucho means “I love you a lot,” but it can still have a less intense meaning than te amo.

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