When you need this
Love isn't only for family and romance. Good friends deserve to hear it too, and in English there's a whole set of warm lines that say "I love you" without those exact words. Partners, husbands and wives have their own language, from the quiet everyday line to the anniversary speech.
With friends, people often go for gratitude instead of the L-word: "I really appreciate you." "I don't know what I'd do without you." These are strong but safe, and they work between any two friends. Between close friends you'll also hear a casual "Love you, man" or "Love ya," said quickly and often with a laugh. The speed keeps it light.
With a partner, the words can be direct. "I love you" is still the big one, especially the first time. After that, couples tend to say it in smaller ways: "I'm crazy about you," "You make everything better." Notice the relationship words, too. "Partner" works for any couple, married or not. "Boyfriend" and "girlfriend" are common at any age, even if it sounds a little young to some people.
Phrases
warm thanks for who someone is, not one favor
this person helps you a lot
a friend who feels like family
casual, quick love between close friends
the big, direct words, especially to a partner
playful and strong: you really love or like someone
being with this person improves your life
how long a couple has been in a relationship
a neutral word for the person you're in a relationship with
for the date you got together or married
deep, serious love
you believe this is the person you'll stay with
Say it out loud
Tap a sentence to hear it. Say it after the voice.
Practice · 3 min
Say the line that fits. Situation on the left, one natural line on the right.
- 1
- 2
- 3
- 4
- 5
Say it today
Use it once in a real conversation before tomorrow. Out loud counts, even to yourself.