Written by Gabriela Estrada

English love has its tricks and can easily make you fall into the traps of literal translation. English love words and phrases may make sense in Spanish, but if they are not translated correctly into English, then they will sound forced and without a clear message to your loved one.

In this blog, I will give you a guide to express yourself naturally and fluently using correctly constructed English love words and phrases, so you can convey them to your partner as well as a native speaker would. Let's get started!

Guide to avoid common mistakes in love expressions

Do not translate literally! One of the most frequent mistakes is to try to translate idiomatic expressions word for word. Such is the case with the famous phrase: "better half"..

• Incorrect translation: "My husband is my half orange"

Literally, "half orange" means nothing in English and will confuse your partner.

• Correct translation: "My husband is my better half"

This is the perfect idiomatic expression to refer to the person who complements you. This phrase conveys exactly the same meaning as "better half" naturally in English.

Expressions of affection

In these phrases, it is important to avoid redundancy. When a person wants to express a lot of love in Spanish, it is very common to duplicate words of endearment. For example: "I love you very much, my love".. In the Hispanic context, they are understood, but in English, this may sound repetitive or even a little strange.

• Incorrect translation: "I love you so much, my love"

Although in Spanish "mi amor" is very common at the end of a sentence, in English, it is common to add "my love" after "I love you so much" is redundant. is redundant.

• Correct translation: "I love you so much, darling"

Use a term of endearment individually. In addition to "darling, you can use "honey" o "sweetheart". These are affectionate and very natural ways to address your partner after expressing your love. Choose the one that you like best or suits your relationship.

Marriage proposals

In these situations, be careful with prepositions! This is a classic mistake that can completely change the meaning of a sentence, or simply make it sound incorrect. When proposing marriage, the preposition "with is not necessary.

• Incorrect translation: "I want to marry with you"

The inclusion of "with" here is a direct translation from Spanish "marry with someone"but it is grammatically incorrect in English.

• Correct translation: "I want to marry you"

The verb "to marry" is transitive and takes a direct object (the person).

If you are thinking of proposing, remember this to make your proposal perfect! 

Do not use "with to your wedding!

Static verbs and the "-ing"

I love you vs. I loving you

One of the most confusing grammatical points is the application of the word "love"which is very important in this context. Static verbs describe states, feelings, possessions or perceptions, not actions in progress.

• Incorrect translation: "I'm loving you". Don't use it!

Although the gerund ("-ing") is used for actions that are happening now, "love" as state of feeling generally does not. Say "I'm loving you" can sound very informalor as if the sentiment is temporary, or even with an ironic connotation in some contexts.

• Correct pronunciation: "I love you"

This is the standard and correct way to express love in English. It is direct, clear and encompasses the feeling in a permanent way.

Recommendations for expressing love in English like a native speaker

In addition to the correct translation of the language, it is necessary to adopt a natural and fluent style to speak about love and feelings in an authentic way. This is achieved through self-confidence in pronouncing new or difficult words, even if you make mistakes. Remember that mistakes are part of the process when used as points of improvement. 

Practicing oral production is what will lead to native fluency. For this, it is advisable to watch romantic series and movies with visible English subtitles. Listen to love songs where affections are clearly expressed and read poems and love letters from known references.

Learn English with Planeta Immiland Education

Planeta Immiland is the first language school for immigration purposes and preparation for the to pass the international exams, such as IELTS, CELPIPsuch as IELTS, CELPIP, TEC, TEF, TEFamong others. We are certified by Languages CanadaWe are certified by Languages Canada, which guarantees a teaching with the highest academic, work, life and emigration standards.

With our coursesWith our courses, the student will be able to develop the necessary comprehension skills to translate expressions of love and in all types of contexts adapted to the English-speaking culture, especially the Canadian one. If you want to improve your English language skills with our specialized courses, contact us at and we will be happy to help you with whatever you need.

I hope this topic has been to your liking and will take you to the next level, thank you very much for reading!

With love, 

Planeta Immiland Education