The word "love" in Spanish is most commonly translated as "amor". When saying "I love you," the main phrases are "te quiero" (less intense, used for family, friends, early romantic stages) and "te amo" (more intense, romantic, often used in serious relationships).
Here are some key phrases for love in Spanish:
- Amor — love (general word for love)
- Te quiero — I love you (casual, affectionate)
- Te amo — I love you (deep romantic love)
- Mi amor — my love (term of endearment)
- Cariño — darling/honey (affectionate)
- Corazón — sweetheart/my heart
- Mi vida — my life (very intimate)
- Eres mi media naranja — you are my better half (idiomatic, romantic)
So to simply say "love" in Spanish, use "amor". To express "I love you," say either "te quiero" or "te amo" depending on the level of intensity.