How to Say “I Love You Too” in Luo

By Diane Patricia • Updated October 3, 2026

amari bende

The phrase "I love you too" in Luo is amari bende.

This phrase is used as a response to express that you reciprocate the love someone has expressed to you.

What does it mean word for word?

The phrase translates literally to "I love you also", where bende means "also" or "too".

Did you know?

In traditional Luo settings, the directness of amari bende can feel overly modern or blunt. Older generations might instead use proverbs or metaphors about the heart to show that love is mutual.
While amari bende is used for romantic love, the same structure could be used to say 'I like you too' in a platonic sense, depending entirely on the context of the conversation.
The word bende is a versatile particle used across many contexts to indicate addition or agreement, not just in romantic love.

Example conversation

Onyango and Akoth are saying goodbye.

Onyango

Amari, Akoth.
I love you, Akoth.
Akoth

Amari bende, Onyango.
I love you too, Onyango.
Onyango

Ngeche kanyakla.
See you soon.

⭐Share⭐ to appreciate human effort 🙏

About The Author

Diane Patricia

Jambo! I'm your friendly Swahili language guide, Diane. In my spare time, I love cycling around the neighborhood which inspired the "Bicycle in Swahili" guide. I'm obsessed with languages and I find joy in teaching others how to navigate their way around Swahili. I write comprehensive guides to help you say anything in Swahili, whether it's "Very Good" or "Help". I aim to make your experience saying "Kwa heri" (Goodbye) as fun as saying "Habari za Siku?" (How has your day been?). I also adore my mbwa (dog). Learning Swahili has never been easier! I also write about Luo, spoken around Lake Victoria, sharing how everyday words are said in it. Karibu sana (You are very welcome)!

Diane PatriciaHelp make this guide better. Spot a mistake, know another way to say it, or have an example from real life? Share it below.

0 Comments

Newest

Oldest Most Voted