How Do You Say “I Love You” in German? ❤️🇩🇪

If you want to say “I love you” in German, the phrase is ich liebe dich (pronounced ikh LEE-buh dikh). This is the classic way to express love and is deeply romantic.

The Phrase for “I Love You” in German

The standard way to say I love you is ich liebe dich.

Examples

  • Ich liebe dich, mein Schatz.
    I love you, my darling.

  • Ich liebe dich so sehr.
    I love you so much.

  • Ich liebe dich von ganzem Herzen.
    I love you with all my heart.



Cultural Tip

In German, ich liebe dich is reserved for romantic relationships or the deepest emotional connections. For family and friends, Germans often say:

👉 Ich hab dich lieb – a softer phrase, more like “I care about you” or “Love ya.”

More Examples

  • Ich liebe dich mehr als alles.
    I love you more than anything.

  • Ich liebe dich, Mama.
    I love you, Mum.

  • Ich hab dich lieb, kleine Schwester.
    I love you, little sister.



🌱 Rooted in Meaning

The word lieben (to love) in German comes from the same root as the English word love, tracing back to the old Proto-Germanic lubō meaning affection, desire, or care. Interestingly, the softer phrase lieb haben literally means “to have love for someone,” which is why it feels warmer and gentler than the intense ich liebe dich.


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