aime
The English phrase "loves" is translated into French as aime.
The word aime is a form of the verb aimer, which is the most general and neutral verb used to express love in French. However, when aime is used with people, it usually implies romantic love.
Which one should you use?
While aime can mean both "likes" and "loves" depending on the context, you should be aware of the phrase aime bien. Adding bien to the verb actually softens the meaning to "likes" rather than strengthening it to "loves". To intensify the expression of love or to denote deep affection or adoration, you might instead use adorer.
Is it said differently in some regions?
In France, the terms chéri or chérie are common terms of endearment meaning darling or dear. In Quebec, Canada, the phrase mon amour is frequently used to mean "my love".
How does it change in a sentence?
The infinitive form of this verb is aimer.
Did you know?
- The French word aimant is the word for a magnet, which is derived from the same root as aimer.
- While aime is used for love, the French use the word coup de foudre to describe the 'thunderbolt' feeling of falling in love at first sight.
- While aime means 'loves', the phrase je t'aime beaucoup often signals a platonic friendship rather than romantic passion. Adding 'a lot' can actually distance the sentiment from deep romantic love.
Examples in context
- Elle aime ce jeu.She loves this game.This sentence is useful for showing how to use aime with a game.Tatoeba #2129283 by Amastan, translation #8788903 by sundown
- Ziri aime ce truc.Ziri loves this thing.This sentence is useful for showing how to use aime with a thing.Tatoeba #11964320 by Amastan, translation #10217381 by Amastan
- Gabor aime la mer.Gabor loves the sea.This sentence is useful for showing how to use aime with the sea.Tatoeba #12495172 by always, translation #11971122 by Amastan
- J'aime ma famille.I love my family.
- J'adore cet endroit.I love this place.
- J'ai de l'affection pour vous.I have affection for you.
- Je kiffe cette chanson!I love this song!
- Je suis fou de toi.I'm crazy about you.
- Bonjour, ma chérie.Hello, my darling.
- Comment vas-tu, mon amour?How are you, my love?
- 374 more sentences on Tatoeba
Example conversation
Lucas and Léa are talking about their favorite music.
- LucasTu aimes ce chanteur ?Do you love this singer?
- LéaOui, je l'aime beaucoup.Yes, I love him a lot.
- LucasMoi, j'aime sa voix.As for me, I love his voice.
- LéaC'est vrai, il est génial.It is true, he is great.
Sources
- Example sentences: Tatoeba CC BY 2.0 FR.
