te amo
romantic
In Colombian Spanish te amo is the strong "I love you" for a partner. Te quiero is warmer and more everyday, and it is used with family and friends too. It is also called Te adoro.
Meaning: declaration of love (phrase)
Ways to say it
| Spanish | Note |
|---|---|
| te amo | romantic |
| Te quiero | warm, family and friends |
| Te adoro | very affectionate |
Te quiero can be used between parents and children or close friends. Te amo is saved for romantic love and is heavier.
Which one should you use?
Te adoro means "I adore you" and sits between the two, tender and a bit playful.
Did you know?
- Colombian families often end phone calls with te quiero even among adult siblings and friends.
Examples in context
- Te amo con todo mi corazón.I love you with all my heart.
- Te quiero mucho, mamá.I love you a lot, Mom.
- Te adoro, mi vida.I adore you, my life.
Example conversation
Gabriel talks with his partner Natalia on the phone while he travels from Barranquilla.
- GabrielYa me tengo que ir, Nata.I have to go now, Nata.
- NataliaCuídate mucho, te quiero.Take good care, I love you.
- GabrielYo también. Te amo.Me too. I love you.
