Mijn liefste
affectionate
In Flemish Mijn liefste is a warm way to say "my love". Mijn schat means "my treasure" and is just as common, and liefje is a light, friendly pet name.
Meaning: affectionate address for a partner (phrase)
Ways to say it
| Dutch | Note |
|---|---|
| Mijn liefste | affectionate |
| Mijn schat | affectionate, everyday |
| Liefje | affectionate, casual |
These words are for a partner, a child or a very close person. Schatje and liefje are the diminutive forms and sound softer.
Which one should you use?
Mijn liefste is the most romantic of the three. Mijn schat fits daily life, for example at the end of a phone call.
Is it said differently in some regions?
All three are standard Dutch and are used in both Flanders and the Netherlands.
Did you know?
- Ik hou van jou is the everyday way to say "I love you" in Dutch, and ik zie je graag is a very Flemish alternative.
Examples in context
- Ik hou van jou, mijn liefste.I love you, my love.
- Slaapwel, mijn schat.Sleep well, my treasure.
- Kom hier, liefje.Come here, sweetie.
Example conversation
Lien calls her husband Pieter from the train after a long day in Leuven.
- LienDag mijn schat, ik ben bijna thuis.Hi my love, I am almost home.
- PieterFijn, mijn liefste. Ik maak het eten klaar.Great, my love. I am getting dinner ready.
- LienTot straks!See you soon!
