Querer and Amar are both Spanish verbs that translate to "to love" in English, but they are used in different contexts and convey different levels of intensity and formality.
Querer
Querer is a more common and versatile verb that can mean "to want," "to like," or "to love," depending on the context. When it means "to love," it usually expresses affection or fondness rather than deep or romantic love.
- Used for family members, friends, and romantic interests in a lighter or more casual way
- Also means "to want" or "to like" in non-romantic contexts
- Can be followed by a noun or verb (e.g., querer a alguien, querer hacer algo)
- Examples:
- Quiero mucho a mi hermano. (I love my brother a lot.)
- ¿Me quieres? (Do you love me?/Do you want me?)
Amar
Amar is a more intense and formal verb that specifically means "to love" in a deep, passionate, or romantic sense. It is often used in literature, poetry, and situations that involve serious or profound love.
- Typically used for romantic love, spiritual love, or deep, serious affection
- Less commonly used in everyday conversation compared to querer
- Usually followed by a noun (e.g., amar a alguien)
- Examples:
- Te amo con todo mi corazón. (I love you with all my heart.)
- Amar es vivir. (To love is to live.)
Summary
- Use querer for casual, familial, or friendly love, and when expressing liking or wanting something
- Use amar for deep, serious, or romantic love, especially in formal, literary, or emotional contexts
- Choosing the right verb depends on the relationship between speakers and the intensity of the feeling being expressed
Last updated: Wed Jun 18, 2025
