Te amo, cariño
/te ˈamo kaˈɾiɲo/word by word
The English phrase "I love you, darling" is translated into Spanish as Te amo, cariño.
This phrase is used to express deep, romantic or profound love. You can also use the adjective querida to address a woman as darling, or querido to address a man as darling.
Which one should you use?
While Te amo expresses deep or profound love, Te quiero is a common alternative that is less intense. It is often used for friends, family or during the earlier stages of a romantic relationship.
How does it change in a sentence?
In the phrase Te amo, cariño, the word cariño is a masculine noun used as a term of endearment. It can be used regardless of the gender of the person you are addressing.
Did you know?
- In Spain, cariño is frequently used by strangers, such as shopkeepers or waiters, to address customers in a friendly way. In this context, it is a polite social lubricant rather than a romantic expression.
- In some Spanish-speaking cultures, using Te amo too early in a relationship can be seen as overwhelming or premature. Te quiero is often the socially expected first step in declaring love.
- The word cariño describes not just a person, but also the physical act of tenderness. For example, you can give someone cariño in the form of a pat on the back or a gentle touch.
Examples in context
- Te amo, cariño, siempre.I love you, darling, always.
- Solo quiero decirte: Te amo, cariño.I only want to tell you: I love you, darling.
- Te amo, cariño, eres mi vida.I love you, darling, you are my life.
Example conversation
A couple is saying goodbye before a long trip.
- MaríaTe amo, cariño, vuelve pronto.I love you, darling, come back soon.
- DanielYo también te amo, María.I love you too, María.
- MaríaTe voy a extrañar mucho.I am going to miss you a lot.
- DanielNo te preocupes, mi amor.Don't worry, my love.
