kuv hlub koj
The English phrase "I love you" is translated into Hmong as kuv hlub koj.
This phrase is an affirmation of romantic feeling.
Meaning: affirmation of romantic feeling (phrase)
What does it mean word for word?
The phrase is composed of kuv (I), hlub (to love) and koj (you).
How does it change in a sentence?
The phrase follows a Subject-Verb-Object word order, which is similar to English.
Did you know?
- While 'I love you' is a direct translation, Hmong speakers often express deep affection by asking if you have eaten or if you are well.
- The tonal nature of the phrase means that even a small mistake in the rising or falling of your voice could result in a completely different sentence.
- Because Hmong was traditionally an oral language, the written form of kuv hlub koj using the Roman alphabet is a relatively recent development to help preserve the language.
Examples in context
- Kuv hlub koj heev.I love you very much.
- Kuv hlub koj tshaj txhua yam.I love you more than anything.
- Kuv hlub koj tiag tiag.I truly love you.
Example conversation
Tou and Nao are saying goodbye for the evening.
- TouKuv hlub koj, Nao.I love you, Nao.
- NaoKuv hlub koj thiab, Tou.I love you too, Tou.
- TouMus pw tau os.Go to sleep now.
- NaoNyob zoo, Tou.Goodbye, Tou.
Sources
- Wiktionary, “I love you” translations, CC BY-SA 4.0, dump of 2026-09-26.
