What does it mean word for word?
The part los amo translates to "I love you (plural)". In this structure, los functions as the direct object pronoun for "them" or "you all" (masculine or mixed gender) and amo is the first-person singular conjugation of the verb amar, meaning "to love".
Which one should you use?
There is a distinction in intensity between different verbs. While los amo expresses deep, profound love, los quiero, familia is a more common and slightly less intense way to express affection for family in everyday Spanish.
How does it change in a sentence?
The gender of the family members being addressed changes the pronoun used. If the family members being addressed are all female, you use the feminine plural las amo, familia instead of the masculine/mixed los amo, familia.
How do you pronounce it?
/los ˈamo faˈmilja/
Did you know?
- The word familia shares an unexpected ancient root with the concept of a 'slave staff' or 'servant' in a household. It stems from the Latin familia, which originally referred to the group of people, including servants, living under one roof.
- The word familia is often used in Spanish to include close friends and godparents who are not blood relatives.
- In many Spanish-speaking cultures, affection for family is often expressed through physical touch like a 'beso' or a hug accompanying these words.
Examples in context
- Te quiero mucho, familia. Siempre están ahí para mí y no sé qué haría sin ustedes.I love you so much, family. You are always there for me, and I don't know what I would do without you.
- Los amo, mi gran familia. Gracias por llenar mi vida de amor y felicidad.I love you, my big family. Thank you for filling my life with love and happiness.
- Los amo, familia, gracias por todo.I love you, family, thank you for everything.
- Ustedes son mi vida, los amo, familia.You are my life, I love you, family.
- Antes de dormir, siempre digo: los amo, familia.Before sleeping, I always say: I love you, family.
Example conversation
Elena is saying goodbye to her family before a trip.
- Elena¡Ya me voy! Los amo, familia.I'm leaving now! I love you, family.
- DanielNosotros también te amamos, Elena.We love you too, Elena.
- ElenaLlamaré cuando llegue al hotel.I'll call when I arrive at the hotel.
- DanielEstá bien, viaja con cuidado.All right, travel safely.
