quiero un novio
/kjeɾo un nobjo/from spelling rules
The English phrase "I want a boyfriend" is expressed in Spanish as quiero un novio.
This phrase is used to express the desire to be in a romantic relationship with a male partner.
What does it mean word for word?
The phrase is composed of quiero (I want), un (a) and novio (boyfriend).
Which one should you use?
While novio is the standard word for boyfriend, it can also mean "groom" in the context of a wedding.
Is it said differently in some regions?
In Mexico, one can say Me gustaría tener un novio. to express the desire for a boyfriend.
Did you know?
- In several Latin American countries, calling someone your novio implies a committed relationship, whereas saliente is used for someone you are just seeing.
- While quiero un novio means 'I want a boyfriend', the verb querer can also mean 'to love', allowing the phrase to subtly hint at a desire for love rather than just a partner.
- The word novio comes from the Latin word for 'new', since a partner in a new relationship or marriage was considered a 'new' addition to the family.
Examples in context
- Quiero un novio.I want a boyfriend.This sentence is useful for expressing the desire to have a boyfriend using the form quiero un novio.Tatoeba #2223027 by Shishir, translation #2221028 by Hybrid
- La verdad es que quiero un novio.The truth is that I want a boyfriend.
- No sé por qué, pero quiero un novio.I don't know why, but I want a boyfriend.
Example conversation
Sofía is talking to her friend Javier about her love life.
- JavierEstás muy sola últimamente, Sofía.You are very lonely lately, Sofía.
- SofíaEs verdad, quiero un novio.It is true, I want a boyfriend.
- Javier¿Cómo sería tu hombre ideal?What would your ideal man be like?
- SofíaSolo quiero un novio bueno.I just want a good boyfriend.
Sources
- IPA marked “from spelling rules” is derived from standard Spanish spelling, where Wiktionary gives none.
- Word origins: Wiktionary entries novio, un, CC BY-SA 4.0.
- Example sentences: Tatoeba CC BY 2.0 FR.
