amar
/ah-MAHR/
to love
The primary meaning of amar is 'to love' a person or a pet deeply.
amar(verb)
to love
?a person, a pet, or life itself
to be in love with
?romantic context
📝 In Action
Mi abuela y mi abuelo se amaron por sesenta años.
A2My grandmother and grandfather loved each other for sixty years.
Yo amo a mis hijos más que nada.
A1I love my children more than anything.
Ella ama su nuevo perro.
A1She loves her new dog.
💡 Grammar Points
The Essential 'Personal A'
When 'amar' is followed by a specific person or pet, you must include the word 'a' right before them. This doesn't translate to English, but it's essential in Spanish: 'Yo amo a Juan' (I love Juan).
Using 'Amar' vs. 'Querer'
'Amar' is reserved for deep, profound love (romantic partners, family, God). Use 'querer' for liking friends, wanting things, or expressing affection for things you enjoy doing.
⭐ Usage Tips
Use with Reflexive Pronouns
To say 'to love each other,' use the reflexive form 'amarse': 'Ellos se aman' (They love each other).
Amar can also mean 'to cherish' an idea or a state, such as peace or solitude.
amar(verb)
to cherish
?an idea, peace, or solitude
to be devoted to
?a cause or concept
📝 In Action
El filósofo amaba la verdad por encima de todo.
B2The philosopher cherished truth above all else.
Ellos aman el arte y la belleza en todas sus formas.
B1They adore art and beauty in all its forms.
⭐ Usage Tips
Poetic and Literary Use
In this context, 'amar' adds a lyrical or highly devoted feeling. If you simply 'like' something, use 'gustar' or 'encantar' instead.
🔄 Conjugations
indicative
present
imperfect
preterite
subjunctive
present
imperfect
✏️ Quick Practice
💡 Quick Quiz: amar
Question 1 of 2
Which sentence correctly uses 'amar' to express love for a person?
📚 More Resources
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the difference between 'amar' and 'querer'?
'Amar' is the most profound and serious form of love, typically used for romance, family, or deep spiritual connection. 'Querer' is more versatile; it means 'to want' or 'to like/love' someone or something less intensely (like friends or cousins). Think of 'amar' as 'love' and 'querer' as 'care deeply for' or 'want.'
Can I use 'amar' for food or hobbies?
Generally, no. 'Amar' is considered too strong for everyday things. For food or hobbies, use 'me encanta' (I love it/I am delighted by it) or 'me gusta mucho' (I really like it).