quiero abrazarte
/kjeɾo abɾaθaɾte/from spelling rules
The English phrase "I want to hold you" is translated into Spanish as quiero abrazarte.
This phrase expresses a desire to hug someone. While 'hold' in English can mean to grasp or carry, quiero abrazarte specifically implies the act of hugging or embracing.
What does it mean word for word?
The phrase quiero abrazarte is composed of quiero (I want), abrazar (to hug) and the suffix -te (you).
Which one should you use?
The pronoun te can also be placed before the conjugated verb quiero instead of being attached to the end of abrazar: te quiero abrazar.
How does it change in a sentence?
The suffix -te attached to the end of the infinitive abrazar indicates that the object being hugged is you in an informal context.
How do you pronounce it?
/kjeɾo abɾaθaɾte/
Did you know?
- The verb abrazar shares the same root as the word for 'bracelet' brazalete because both refer to the 'arm' brazo wrapping around something.
- In many Spanish-speaking cultures, an abrazo is often accompanied by a kiss on one or both cheeks, even between platonic friends.
- While quiero abrazarte is a hug, if you used the verb sostener for 'hold', you would be talking about physically supporting someone's weight to stop them from falling.
Examples in context
- ¡Quiero abrazarte! ¡Cuánto tiempo sin verte!I want to hug you! It's been so long since I last saw you!
- Quiero abrazarte ahora mismo.I want to hold you right now.
- Eres tan especial y quiero abrazarte.You are so special and I want to hold you.
- Cuando te vea, quiero abrazarte fuerte.When I see you, I want to hold you tight.
Example conversation
Elena and Alejandro are saying goodbye at the airport.
- ElenaNo quiero que te vayas todavía.I don't want you to leave yet.
- AlejandroYo tampoco, pero mi vuelo sale pronto.I don't either, but my flight leaves soon.
- ElenaVen aquí, quiero abrazarte una última vez.Come here, I want to hold you one last time.
- AlejandroTe voy a extrañar mucho, Elena.I am going to miss you a lot, Elena.
Sources
- IPA marked “from spelling rules” is derived from standard Spanish spelling, where Wiktionary gives none.
