How to say “i love you” in Japanese

The short answer

大好き

daisukidai-skee

The literal I love you in Japanese, 愛してる (aishiteru), is very strong and rarely said. Most couples say 大好き (daisuki), “I really like you”.

4 ways to say i love you in Japanese

  1. 大好き

    daisukidai-skee

    Means: I really like you / I love you

    Use it: The usual way couples and friends say it.

  2. 好きです

    suki desuskee dess

    Means: I like you

    Use it: A love confession.

  3. 愛してる

    aishiteruai-shee-teh-roo

    Means: I love you (deep)

    Use it: Serious moments; rare in daily life.

  4. 大好きだよ

    daisuki da yodai-skee dah yoh

    Means: I love you, you know

    Use it: Warm and casual.

Pronunciation tips

  • The u in suki is barely said: “skee”.

More in Japanese

I love you in other languages

Audio is AI-generated by SayHowTo for learning. Accents vary by country and region.