Te quiero
everyday, family
For family members the natural phrase is Te quiero, or Te quiero mucho for "I love you very much". Te amo exists too, but is stronger.
Meaning: declaration of love to family (phrase)
Ways to say it
| Spanish | Note |
|---|---|
| Te quiero | everyday, family |
| Te quiero mucho | affectionate |
| Te amo | strong, emotional |
Add the relation for warmth: Te quiero, mamá, Te quiero, abuelo, Te quiero mucho, hermano. The word goes at the end, after a comma.
Which one should you use?
Between relatives te quiero is the everyday choice. Te amo is heard in emotional moments, like a goodbye or a birthday message.
When do people say it?
Many Spanish-speaking families greet each other with kisses or hugs, and te quiero often follows a goodbye.
Did you know?
- Spanish speakers often reply to te quiero with y yo a ti, meaning "and I love you".
Examples in context
- Te quiero, mamá.I love you, Mom.
- Te quiero mucho, abuelo.I love you very much, Grandpa.
- Te quiero, hermano.I love you, brother.
Example conversation
Clara says goodbye to her grandmother at a bus station in Lima.
- ClaraAbuela, ya me voy.Grandma, I am leaving now.
- AbuelaCuídate mucho, mi niña.Take good care, my dear.
- ClaraTe quiero mucho, abuela.I love you very much, Grandma.
- AbuelaY yo a ti.And I love you.