cariño
/kaˈɾiɲo/
The English phrase "tender loving care" can be translated into Spanish as cariño.
The word cariño expresses the concept of affection, care or tenderness. It is a versatile term used when describing the care given toward people, animals or even inanimate objects.
Which one should you use?
While cariño represents the general concept of care or affection, the phrase con mucho cariño is used specifically to say that something was done "with much tender loving care" or "with much affection".
How does it change in a sentence?
The plural form cariños can be used to refer to specific affectionate gestures or to the sweet words, such as terms of endearment, used between people.
How do you pronounce it?
/kaˈɾiɲo/
Did you know?
- You can use cariño as a nickname for children or close friends regardless of their gender, making it a universal term of endearment.
- The linguistic origin of cariño is somewhat mysterious and may stem from the Aragonese word carinyo, making its exact path into modern Spanish a subject of debate among historians.
- Using tengo cariño to describe a feeling for someone can signal a deep platonic bond that is intentionally distinct from the romantic love expressed by estoy enamorado.
Examples in context
- Cuidado amoroso para mascotasTender loving care for pets
- El perro necesita mucho cariño.The dog needs a lot of tender loving care.
- Tu planta crecerá con un poco de cariño.Your plant will grow with a little tender loving care.
- Gracias por darme tanto cariño durante mi enfermedad.Thank you for giving me so much tender loving care during my illness.
Example conversation
Daniel and Lucía are talking about a new kitten.
- Daniel¿Crees que el gatito estará bien?Do you think the kitten will be okay?
- LucíaSí, solo necesita mucho cariño y descanso.Yes, he just needs a lot of tender loving care and rest.
- DanielMe alegra que lo cuides con tanto cariño.I am glad that you are caring for him with so much tender loving care.
- LucíaEs un animalito muy especial.He is a very special little animal.
Sources
- Pronunciation: Wiktionary entry cariño, CC BY-SA 4.0, dump of 2026-09-26.
- Word origins: Wiktionary entries cariño, CC BY-SA 4.0.
