How to Say ‘I love you’ in French
Je t'aime
zhuh t emm
[zhuh t emm]
💬 Usage Tip: [T'] is short for [te] before a vowel sound, so it must stay joined in [t'aime]. [Je t'aime] is specifically for loving a person; for liking a thing, French uses [j'aime].
🇫🇷 In France: [Je t'aime] is strong and personal, not a casual "love ya." In France it's usually romantic or very close family, not something said lightly to friends.
Phrase Breakdown
Je
[zhuh]
I love you
Used to express affection and love for someone.
Il lui a dit "Je t'aime" sous les étoiles.
He told her "I love you" under the stars.
t'
[t]
I love you
Used to express affection and love for someone.
Il lui a dit "Je t'aime" sous les étoiles.
He told her "I love you" under the stars.
aime
[emm]
I love you
Used to express affection and love for someone.
Il lui a dit "Je t'aime" sous les étoiles.
He told her "I love you" under the stars.
Guides for French learners
Get the Full Learning Experience
This lesson is just a preview. Download PrettyFluent to practice pronunciation, roleplay conversations, and master vocabulary with spaced repetition.
Pronunciation Feedback
AI-powered speech recognition to perfect your accent
Spaced Repetition
Retain vocabulary long-term with smart practice
Immersive Roleplaying
Practice real conversations with AI partners
Custom Scenarios
Request lessons tailored to your specific needs
Get Full LessonWhat Learners Are Saying
“Moved to Lyon for a culinary apprenticeship. The food and restaurant scenarios were exactly what I needed — my French colleagues were genuinely impressed.”
Tom H., 38, Chef
“Studying in Paris and the academic French I learned in school was useless for daily life. This app filled the gap in weeks, not months.”
Nina W., 29, Graduate Student
“Learning a language has never been as immediately impactful. Now I can charm the locals and navigate the food scene like a boss.”
Alex M., 42, Software Engineer