Love vs. Like in Japanese

Now I’m sure you’re wondering what I mean by this. Think back to all of the shoujo mangas that you’ve read. Have you ever seen someone say “I love you”? Most often times, no (if you’re reading a publishers translation). 

Stop and read a passionate moment. 

In Japanese culture, it is not common to tell a family member/friend/loved one I love you all the time. Here, in North America, we say I love you over the phone all the time, in letters, in public. 

Now why is that?

Rather then just say I love you, they show their love. It’s easy to say it, but can you show how much you love?

To sum it up, often times you won’t read anything like I love him, I love her.

How do you say you like something/someone?

けいこさんはあきらくんがすきです。Keiko-san wa Akira-kun ga sukidesu.

Keiko likes Akira. 

わたしはあなたがすきです。Watashi wa anata ga sukidesu.

I like you.

This is said as a confession of love. If you want to confess your love in Japanese, this is how you should go about it.

In the blanks below, add your subjects.

＿は＿がすきです。

わたしはあなたをあいしています。Watashi wa anata o aishiteimasu.

I love you.

This is passionate. It’s very rare that this is said in real life. This is often referred to as being dramatic. Some Japanese people that you meet, may say that they’ve never said I love you before. It is very personal and formal. 

In the blanks below, add a subject.

＿は＿をあいしています。

わたしはあきらくんにこいしています。Watashi wa Akira-kun ni koi shiteimasu.

I’m in love with Akira. 

＿は＿にこいしています。

How do you say I like something a lot? 

わたしはこだくみがだいすきです。 Watashi wa Koda Kumi ga daisukidesu.

I (really) like Koda Kumi.

You can use this to express how much you like a celebrity, or food. It’s lighthearted. 

Now this one may sound confusing, because can’t you just use the same format to confess your love to someone? Yes and no. In Japan, I wouldn’t say I like (romantically), Joe, Kyle, and Peter. These feelings are serious, and very personal. This kind of affection is very different than what we say and do in North America. 

If you have any questions or comments, send me a message! :)

(Source: shojomangalove)