我爱
wǒ ài
I love · trad. 我愛
我爱 (wǒ ài) means "I love" in Mandarin Chinese. It expresses a strong, deep affection or passion. While it can be used for people, places, or things, it often carries a more profound meaning than "love" in English, especially when directed at people.
When to use it
Generally neutral, but very strong. When expressing love to a person, 我爱你 (wǒ ài nǐ) is more common. For a softer sentiment, or for things you enjoy, 喜欢 (xǐhuan, "like") is often preferred. For a passionate love for a hobby or cause, 热爱 (rè'ài) can be used.
How to pronounce it
Sounds like "wuh EYE." The 我 (wǒ) is a third tone, and 爱 (ài) is a fourth tone.
Other ways to say it
- 我爱你wǒ ài nǐI love you (common for people)
- 我喜欢wǒ xǐ huanI like (softer, for things or less intense feelings)
- 我热爱wǒ rè àiI passionately love (for hobbies, causes)
Examples
我爱我的家人。
wǒ ài wǒ de jiā rén 。
I love my family.
我爱吃中国菜。
wǒ ài chī zhōng guó cài 。
I love eating Chinese food.
我爱你，亲爱的。
wǒ ài nǐ ， qīn ài de 。
I love you, my dear.
Pro tip: In Chinese, 爱 (ài) for people often implies a very deep, romantic, or familial bond. For everyday enjoyment of things or casual affection, 喜欢 (xǐhuan, "like") is much more common and less intense. You might say "我喜欢咖啡" (I like coffee) rather than "我爱咖啡" (I love coffee) unless you have a truly profound passion for it.
Related phrases
和平 · Peace钱 · Money闭嘴 · Shut up
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