Welsh, or Cymraeg as it is known locally, is a beautiful and lyrical language spoken in Wales. If you want to express your love or affection to someone in Welsh, learning how to say “I love you” is a wonderful way to do so. Below you will find formal and informal ways to express “I love you” in Welsh, as well as a few regional variations if applicable.
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1. Formal Expressions
In more formal contexts, you can use the following expressions to convey your love:
1. “Rwy’n dy garu di”
This is the most common and straightforward way to say “I love you” in Welsh. It is pronounced as “roo-in duh gar-ee dee.”
Examples:
- Dad to child: Rwy’n dy garu di, fy mhlentyn (I love you, my child).
- Spouse to spouse: Rwy’n dy garu di, fy anwylyd (I love you, my darling).
- Friend to friend: Rwy’n dy garu di, fy ffrind (I love you, my friend).
2. “Rwy’n dy garu di’n fawr”
If you want to emphasize your strong affection, you can include the phrase “yn fawr,” meaning “great.” It is pronounced as “roo-in duh gar-ee deen vowr.”
Examples:
- Parent to child: Rwy’n dy garu di’n fawr iawn (I love you very much).
- Partner to partner: Rwy’n dy garu di’n fawr iawn, fy anwylyd (I love you very much, my darling).
2. Informal Expressions
When speaking in an informal setting or with loved ones, you can use these slightly altered phrases:
1. “Dwi’n dy garu di”
This variation, using “Dwi’n” instead of “Rwy’n,” is less formal and more commonly used in casual conversations. It is pronounced as “dween duh gar-ee dee.”
Examples:
- Sibling to sibling: Dwi’n dy garu di, brawd (I love you, brother).
- Partner to partner: Dwi’n dy garu di, cariad (I love you, sweetheart).
2. “Ai’n caru ti”
In some areas of Wales, particularly in the south, “caru” is used instead of “garu.” It is pronounced as “eye-n car-ee tee.”
Example:
- Friend to friend: Ai’n caru ti, ffrind (I love you, friend)
Regional Variations
While the phrases mentioned above are widely understood across Wales, the language may slightly differ in certain regions:
1. North Wales
In North Wales, “cariad” is often used informally instead of “garu.” It is pronounced as “car-yad.” For example:
Example:
- Partner to partner: Dwi’n dy garu di’n fawr iawn, fy nghariad (I love you very much, my love).
2. South Wales
In South Wales, especially in Valleys Welsh, you may come across the phrase “rydw i’n dy garu di.” It is pronounced as “roo-dooeen duh gar-ee dee.” For instance:
Example:
- Parent to child: Rydw i’n dy garu di, fy nghariad (I love you, my love).
Regardless of the specific phrases or regional variations, expressing your love in Welsh will surely bring a smile to your loved one’s face. Remember to accompany your words with genuine affection and warmth, making it an even more heartfelt gesture.
