Te quiero, hija
The English phrase "I love you, my daughter" is expressed in Spanish as Te quiero, hija.
This phrase is an expression of affection spoken by a parent to their daughter. While the verb used is one that can mean many things, in this context, it is the standard way to say "I love you".
What does it mean word for word?
Literally, Te quiero, hija translates to "I want you, daughter", but it is used to express love.
Which one should you use?
You can use Te quiero, hija for common affection, but Te amo, hija is a more intense and profound version used for deep emotional bonds. For added sweetness and endearment, you can use the diminutive form Te quiero, hijita to say "I love you, little daughter".
How does it change in a sentence?
While including the possessive pronoun "mi" (my) in a phrase like Te quiero, mi hija is grammatically correct, it is often omitted in natural Spanish speech when addressing a family member directly.
Did you know?
- In many Spanish-speaking households, affection is often expressed through care-taking phrases rather than direct declarations of love, so Te quiero is frequently paired with a question about whether the child has eaten.
- The word hija comes from the Latin fīlia. Over time, the initial 'f' in many Latin words transitioned to a silent 'h' in Spanish, which is why it is spelled with an 'h' but not pronounced.
- While Te amo is an intense expression of love, in some Spanish-speaking cultures it is reserved exclusively for romantic partners or very formal declarations, making Te quiero the safer choice for family.
Examples in context
- Mi niña, te amo más de lo que puedes imaginar. Eres mi mayor tesoro en la vida.My girl, I love you more than you can imagine. You are my greatest treasure in life.
- Hija mía, quiero que sepas lo mucho que te amo y lo orgulloso/a que estoy de ti. Eres una persona maravillosa.My daughter, I want you to know how much I love you and how proud I am of you. You are a wonderful person.
- Te quiero mucho, hija.I love you very much, daughter.
- Te quiero, hija, siempre estaré contigo.I love you, daughter, I will always be with you.
- No lo olvides: te quiero, hija.Don't forget it: I love you, daughter.
Example conversation
A parent says goodbye to their daughter before school.
- MaríaTen un buen día en la escuela.Have a great day at school.
- DanielGracias, mamá.Thanks, mom.
- MaríaTe quiero, hija.I love you, daughter.
- DanielYo también te quiero.I love you too.
Sources
- Word origins: Wiktionary entries hija, te, CC BY-SA 4.0.
