besitos
/besitos/from spelling rules
The English phrase "kiss kiss" is translated into Spanish as besitos.
besitos is used to express playful affection. In many Spanish-speaking cultures, it is frequently used as a sign-off in text messages or emails to express warmth and friendliness.
What does it mean word for word?
besitos is the diminutive form of besos (kisses), where the suffix -itos implies little or adds a sense of affection, resulting in the meaning "little kisses".
Is there a formal and an informal way to say it?
besitos is an informal and affectionate form, commonly used between friends, family or in casual digital correspondence.
How do you pronounce it?
/besitos/
When do people say it?
In many Spanish-speaking cultures, besitos is a common way to sign off digital messages to show warmth. For a playful onomatopoeic alternative that imitates the actual sound of a kiss, you can use Muak.
Did you know?
- While besitos implies 'little kisses' in a message, the actual social custom of dos besos in Spain involves touching cheeks rather than kissing the skin.
- If you were to use the plural besitos with a very high degree of sarcasm, it can be used to mock someone's perceived 'sweetness' or lack of seriousness.
- In some Spanish-speaking regions, the diminutive suffix -itos can be used to soften a request or make a command sound less harsh, not just to indicate small size.
Examples in context
- Te mando muchos besitos.I send you many little kisses.
- Dale besitos al bebé.Give the baby some little kisses.
- ¡Muchos besitos para todos!Many little kisses to everyone!
Example conversation
Lucía is saying goodbye to Javier over the phone.
- LucíaBueno, me tengo que ir ya.Well, I have to go now.
- JavierEstá bien, Lucía. Hasta luego.Alright, Lucía. See you later.
- LucíaAdiós, Javier, ¡besitos!Goodbye, Javier, little kisses!
- Javier¡Besitos para ti también!Little kisses for you too!
Sources
- IPA marked “from spelling rules” is derived from standard Spanish spelling, where Wiktionary gives none.
