te quiero, mamá
The English phrase "I love you, mama" is translated into Spanish as te quiero, mamá.
This phrase is an expression of affection used to tell one's mother that she is loved. In Spanish, the subject pronoun yo (I) is typically omitted because the conjugation of the verb already indicates that the subject is "I".
What does it mean word for word?
te is the direct object pronoun for the informal "you", and quiero is the first-person singular conjugation of the verb querer, which means "to want" or "to love".
Is it said differently in some regions?
In certain regions, such as Puerto Rico and the Dominican Republic, mami or mamita is often used to express love toward one's mother.
Did you know?
- While te quiero is the standard way to say 'i love you' to a mother, using te amo is much more intense and is often reserved for romantic partners or deeply dramatic moments.
- In some Latin American countries, mami is used as a general term of endearment for any woman or girl, not just one's own mother.
- In many Spanish speaking cultures, it is common for adult children to continue calling their mother mamá or mami well into adulthood, regardless of the formality of the setting.
Examples in context
- Te quiero, ma.I love you, Mom.
- Te amo, mami/mamita.I love you, Mommy.
- Eres la mejor, te quiero, mamá.You are the best, I love you, mama.
Example conversation
Sofía is hugging her mother before leaving for school.
- SofíaAdiós, mamá. Te quiero, mamá.Bye, mama. I love you, mama.
- MamáYo también te quiero, Sofía.I love you too, Sofia.
- SofíaNos vemos más tarde.See you later.
- MamáQue tengas un buen día.Have a great day.
