私たちはあなたを愛しています
watashitachi wa anata o aishiteimasu
The Japanese phrase for "we love you" is 私たちはあなたを愛しています (watashitachi wa anata o aishiteimasu).
This phrase is used to express deep romantic or familial love for another person.
What does it mean word for word?
The subject watashitachi means "we" and is composed of watashi (I) and the pluralizing suffix -tachi (group/plural marker).
Is there a formal and an informal way to say it?
For a more informal and masculine way to say "We really love you," you can use Ore-tachi wa kimi ga daisuki da, which is suitable among close friends or family members.
How does it change in a sentence?
The particle o (written as を) marks anata (you) as the direct object of the verb aishiteimasu.
How do you pronounce it?
watashitachi wa anata o aishiteimasu
Did you know?
- Historically, a common way to express deep affection in Japanese literature was not to say 'I love you' but to say the moon is beautiful tonight.
- The verb ai for love was historically influenced by Buddhist and Chinese concepts and was not commonly used as a romantic verb in everyday Japanese until the modern era.
- While aishiteru translates to 'I love you', it is used so sparingly in Japan that some people go their entire lives without ever saying it aloud.
Example conversation
A couple is talking about their future together.
- 蓮 Ren美咲、これからもよろしくね。Misaki, korekara mo yoroshiku ne.Misaki, I look forward to our future together.
- 美咲 Misaki私もよ。蓮は本当に優しいね。Watashi mo yo. Ren wa hontou ni yasashii ne.Me too. Ren, you are truly kind.
- 蓮 Ren私たちはあなたを愛しています。Watashitachi wa anata o aishite imasu.We love you.
- 美咲 Misakiありがとう。私も愛しているわ。Arigatou. Watashi mo aishite iru wa.Thank you. I love you too.
