Amor
noun, pet name
The Spanish word for love is Amor. To a girl you can use it as a pet name, as in mi amor, which means "my love". Cariño is a softer word.
Meaning: love, and a pet name (noun)
Ways to say it
| Spanish | Note |
|---|---|
| Amor | noun, pet name |
| Mi amor | romantic |
| Cariño | affectionate |
Many Spanish speakers use amor with children, friends and partners alike, so it is not always romantic.
Which one should you use?
Amor can be both the feeling and a name for someone you love. Cariño also means "affection" and is used more lightly.
How does it change in a sentence?
Amor is a masculine noun, so the article is el amor even when you talk about love for a woman. As a pet name it is the same for men and women.
Did you know?
- The word amor is masculine, but it is a pet name for women too, and mi amor is often said to little girls.
Examples in context
- El amor es paciencia.Love is patience.
- Hola, amor, ¿cómo estás?Hi, love, how are you?
- Gracias, mi amor.Thanks, my love.
Example conversation
Teresa greets her daughter Lucía after school.
- TeresaHola, amor. ¿Cómo estuvo la escuela?Hi, love. How was school?
- LucíaBien, mamá.Fine, Mom.
- TeresaQué bueno. Vamos a casa.Good. Let us go home.
