kochanie
/kɔˈxa.ɲɛ/
The English phrase "my darling" is translated into Polish as kochanie.
kochanie is a term of endearment used to address a person who is loved, typically in informal relationships between romantic partners.
What does it mean word for word?
kochanie is a neuter noun derived from the verb kochać, which means "to love".
Which one should you use?
The variant kochaneczko is a more affectionate and intimate way to express the same sentiment.
How does it change in a sentence?
Unlike English, the Polish term kochanie does not require a possessive adjective like "my" to express "my darling". It is used as a standalone vocative.
How do you pronounce it?
The word has 3 syllables, with the stress on the 2nd syllable: /kɔˈxa.ɲɛ/.
Did you know?
- In Polish, calling someone kochanie functions as a noun, making the phrase literally 'the act of loving' used as a name.
- In some Polish households, kochanie may be used by parents toward children, shifting its meaning from romantic love to familial affection.
- The term kochanie is grammatically neuter, even if you are using it to address a man or a woman.
Examples in context
- Cześć Kochanie! Jak minął Twój dzień?Hi darling! How was your day?
- Spędźmy dzisiaj wieczór razem, Kochaneczko.Let's spend tonight together, my dear.
- Wszystko będzie dobrze, kochanie.Everything will be fine, my darling.
- Dzień dobry, kochanie!Good morning, my darling!
- Bardzo cię kocham, kochanie.I love you very much, my darling.
Example conversation
Tomasz and Małgorzata are having breakfast at home.
- TomaszDzień dobry, kochanie.Good morning, my darling.
- MałgorzataDzień dobry, Tomaszu.Good morning, Tomasz.
- TomaszChcesz kawy, kochanie?Do you want coffee, my darling?
- MałgorzataTak, bardzo chętnie.Yes, I would love to.
Sources
- Pronunciation: Wiktionary entry kochanie, CC BY-SA 4.0, dump of 2026-09-26.
