愛してる
aishiteruromantic, strong
The strongest romantic phrase in Japanese is 愛してる (aishiteru). The most common way to confess to someone is the softer 好きです (suki desu), "I like you". It is also called 大好きだよ (daisuki da yo).
Meaning: romantic declaration (phrase)
Ways to say it
| Japanese | Romanization | Note |
|---|---|---|
| 愛してる | aishiteru | romantic, strong |
| 好きです | suki desu | romantic, confession |
| 大好きだよ | daisuki da yo | romantic, warm |
People confess with 好きです (suki desu), often followed by 付き合ってください (tsukiatte kudasai), "please go out with me". Couples use 大好きだよ (daisuki da yo) for everyday affection. 愛してる (aishiteru) is saved for deep moments, such as a proposal or a letter.
Is there a formal and an informal way to say it?
Adding よ (yo) or dropping です (desu) makes the phrase softer and more intimate.
When do people say it?
Many Japanese couples rarely say 愛してる (aishiteru) aloud, and see it as heavy. The word 好き (suki) carries real feeling in a romantic setting.
Did you know?
- In Japan, a love confession is often called 告白 (kokuhaku), and it is usually a clear step before a couple starts dating.
Examples in context
- 愛してる。Aishiteru.I love you.
- ずっと好きでした。Zutto suki deshita.I have liked you for a long time.
- 君のことが大好きだよ。Kimi no koto ga daisuki da yo.I really love you.
Example conversation
Tomoya tells Chika how he feels after a festival.
- Tomoyaチカ、ずっと好きでした。Chika, zutto suki deshita.Chika, I have liked you for a long time.
- Chika本当に?Hontou ni?Really?
- Tomoyaうん。付き合ってください。Un. Tsukiatte kudasai.Yes. Please go out with me.
