Te quiero, hijo
The English phrase "I love you, son" is translated into Spanish as Te quiero, hijo.
This phrase is an expression of affection used by a parent to tell their male child that they love him.
What does it mean word for word?
Literally, Te quiero translates to "I want you," but in the context of people, it is the standard way to say "I love you".
Which one should you use?
While Te quiero, hijo is the standard way to express affection, Te amo, hijo is a more intense or profound version of "I love you".
Did you know?
- In many Spanish-speaking cultures, it is common to use hijo or mijito as a term of endearment for any young man, even if he is not the speaker's biological son.
- Depending on the country, using Te amo with a child can be the norm, while in others it is reserved exclusively for romantic partners, making Te quiero the only safe choice.
- The word hijo actually stems from the Old Spanish word fijo, which is why the letter 'h' is silent today.
Example conversation
A father says goodbye to his son before school.
- AlejandroTen cuidado en la escuela.Be careful at school.
- SofíaLo haré, papá.I will, Dad.
- AlejandroTe quiero, hijo.I love you, son.
- SofíaYo también te quiero.I love you too.
Sources
- Word origins: Wiktionary entries hijo, te, CC BY-SA 4.0.
