Ways to say it
| Greek | Romanization (Wiktionary) | IPA | Note |
|---|---|---|---|
| αγάπη | agápi | /aˈɣa.pi/ | feminine |
| έρωτας | érotas | /ˈe.ɾo.tas/ | masculine |
In Greek, the word for love depends on the type of affection being described. αγάπη is the most common and widely used term, covering general affection, familial love or the abstract concept of love. In contrast, έρωτας specifically refers to romantic or sexual passion and desire. This distinction stems from ancient Greek literature, where έρως referred to passionate and sometimes uncontrollable love. You may also encounter the verb κάνω έρωτα, which is a euphemism meaning to have sex with.
Which one should you use?
Use αγάπη for affectionate, unconditional or platonic love, as well as the general concept of love. Use έρωτας when you specifically mean romantic or erotic love.
Related words
How does it change in a sentence?
αγάπη is a feminine noun. Its genitive form (meaning 'of love') is της αγάπης. έρωτας is a masculine noun. Its genitive form is του έρωτα.
How do you pronounce it?
The word αγάπη is pronounced /aˈɣa.pi/ and has three syllables, with the stress on the second syllable.
When do people say it?
To express affection toward someone, you can use the phrase Αγάπη μου, which means 'my love'. Other related terms include Αγαπημένος/αγαπημένη for 'beloved' and the endearment Μωρό μου, which literally translates to 'my baby'.
Did you know?
- Beyond αγάπη and έρωτας, Greek has a third distinct word for love, φιλία, which describes the deep bond of friendship and brotherly affection.
- The root of έρωτας is the same as the name of the god Eros, who is often depicted in art as a mischievous child.
- While αγάπη is the general word for love, Greek speakers often use the verb λατρεύω to express a more intense, almost worshipful adoration for someone or something.
Examples in context
- Η αγάπη δεν πεθαίνει.Love doesn't die.This sentence uses αγάπη.Tatoeba #5381600 by Zeus, translation #3825367 by CK
- Αγάπησε αυτό που κάνεις.Love what you do.Tatoeba #7772217 by eypros, translation #7771203 by Adelpa
- Ήταν ο πρώτος της έρωτας.He was her first love.This sentence uses έρωτας.Tatoeba #5356640 by Zeus, translation #5352577 by Hybrid
- 49 more sentences on Tatoeba
Example conversation
George and Anastasia are talking about their family.
- Γιώργος GiorgosΗ οικογένειά μου έχει πολλή αγάπη.I oikogeneiá mou échei pollí agápi.My family has a lot of love.
- Αναστασία AnastasiaΕίναι το πιο σημαντικό πράγμα.Eínai to pio simantikó prágma.It is the most important thing.
- Γιώργος GiorgosΝαι, η αγάπη μας κρατάει ενωμένους.Nai, i agápi mas kratáei enoménous.Yes, love keeps us together.
- Αναστασία AnastasiaΣυμφωνώ απόλυτα, Γιώργο.Symfonó apólyta, Giórgo.I completely agree, George.
Sources
- Wiktionary, “love” translations and entries αγάπη, έρωτας, CC BY-SA 4.0, dump of 2026-09-26.
- Example sentences: Tatoeba CC BY 2.0 FR.
