Ti voglio bene, fratello
The English phrase "I love you, brother" is translated into Italian as Ti voglio bene, fratello.
This phrase is an expression of affection used for a male sibling or a very close male friend.
Which one should you use?
In Italian, there is a distinction between different types of love. Use Ti voglio bene instead of Ti amo when expressing affection for a brother or a friend, as Ti amo is reserved for romantic love. You may also use the affectionate form Ti voglio bene, fratellone to say "I love you, big brother", created by adding the suffix -one to fratello.
Did you know?
- While English uses 'love' for everything, the Italian Ti voglio bene literally translates to 'I want you well'.
- The word fratello comes from the Latin frātellus, which was originally a diminutive meaning 'little brother'.
- The phrase Ti voglio bene is so versatile that it is frequently shortened to TVB in text messages and social media.
Examples in context
- Sei il migliore, ti voglio bene, fratello.You are the best, I love you, brother.
- Sempre con te, ti voglio bene, fratello.Always with you, I love you, brother.
Example conversation
Chiara and Alessandro are hugging after a long time apart.
- ChiaraChe bello vederti, Alessandro!It is so good to see you, Alessandro!
- AlessandroAnche per me, Chiara.For me too, Chiara.
- ChiaraTi voglio bene, fratello.I love you, brother.
- AlessandroAnch'io a te!I love you too!
Sources
- Word origins: Wiktionary entries bene, fratello, ti, CC BY-SA 4.0.
