¡ay, cariño!
/ˈai kaˈɾiɲo/word by word
The English phrase "oh baby" can be translated into Spanish as ¡ay, cariño!
This phrase is an affectionate expression used to address a romantic partner or a loved one.
How do you pronounce it?
/ˈai kaˈɾiɲo/
Did you know?
- Depending on the region, cariño can be replaced by cielo meaning 'sky' or 'heaven', treating the partner as if they are a piece of the heavens.
- In some Spanish-speaking cultures, calling a stranger cariño in a service setting, such as a market or cafe, is a common way to be friendly rather than an attempt at flirting.
- While ay is often an expression of pain, in this affectionate context it functions as a soulful sigh or an exclamation of intense feeling.
Examples in context
- Oh cariño, eres mi mundoOh dear, you are my world
- Oh bebé, te extraño muchoOh baby, I miss you so much
- ¡ay, cariño!, no te dejes lastimar.Oh baby, don't let yourself get hurt.
- ¡ay, cariño!, te extrañé mucho hoy.Oh baby, I missed you so much today.
- ¡ay, cariño!, mira qué lindo es este regalo.Oh baby, look how beautiful this gift is.
Example conversation
Daniel gives Lucía a bouquet of flowers.
- Lucía¡Ay, cariño! Son preciosas.Oh baby! They are beautiful.
- DanielMe alegra que te gusten, Lucía.I'm glad you like them, Lucía.
- LucíaEres muy detallista conmigo.You are very thoughtful with me.
- DanielTe mereces lo mejor del mundo.You deserve the best in the world.
