What does it mean word for word?
In this phrase, Los functions as a direct object pronoun meaning 'you all' (masculine or mixed gender) or 'them'.
Which one should you use?
While Los quiero is the standard way to express affection, Los amo is a stronger, more intense version often used for deep romantic love or profound familial bonds. If you are speaking to only one person, you should use Te quiero instead of a plural form.
Is it said differently in some regions?
In some Latin American countries, especially in Mexico, Los quiero is a common informal way of expressing love to a group of people.
How does it change in a sentence?
The pronoun used depends on the gender of the group you are addressing. Use Los quiero for a masculine or mixed-gender group, but if you are addressing a group of only females, you must use Las quiero instead.
How do you pronounce it?
/los kjeɾo/
Did you know?
- The word Los in Los quiero is a direct descendant of the Latin word illōs, which was the accusative plural masculine form of ille.
- While Los quiero expresses affection, the verb querer also means 'to want'. Depending on the context, this can create a playful double meaning of both loving and wanting a group of people.
- In Spain, you would likely say Os quiero instead of Los quiero when speaking to a group of friends. This is because Spain uses the pronoun os for the informal plural 'you'.
Examples in context
- Los quiero a todosI love you all
- Os quiero, amigosI love you all, friends
- Los quiero, hermanosI love you all, siblings
- Los quiero mucho, hijos.I love you both very much, my children.
- Los quiero por ser tan buenos amigos.I love you guys for being such good friends.
- No olviden que los quiero.Don't forget that I love you.
Example conversation
Lucía is saying goodbye to Javier and his siblings.
- LucíaYa me voy, nos vemos mañana.I'm leaving now, see you tomorrow.
- JavierQue tengas una buena noche, Lucía.Have a good night, Lucía.
- LucíaGracias, los quiero.Thanks, I love you all.
- JavierNosotros también te queremos.We love you too.
Sources
- IPA marked “from spelling rules” is derived from standard Spanish spelling, where Wiktionary gives none.
- Word origins: Wiktionary entries los, CC BY-SA 4.0.
