How to Say "lover" in Spanish
The most common Spanish word for “lover” is “amante” — use 'amante' for a romantic partner, especially if the relationship is secret or illicit, or to describe someone who deeply loves an activity or interest.
amante
ah-MAHN-tehaˈman.te
Examples
Mi abuelo siempre fue un gran amante de la ópera.
My grandfather was always a great lover of opera.
Los amantes de la naturaleza se reúnen aquí cada primavera.
Nature lovers gather here every spring.
La novela cuenta la historia de un hombre y su amante secreta.
The novel tells the story of a man and his secret lover/mistress.
Su amante le regaló un collar muy caro.
His lover gave him a very expensive necklace.
Gender is Set by the Article
Even though the word 'amante' ends in '-e', it doesn't change form. You use 'el' for a male enthusiast ('el amante de la música') and 'la' for a female enthusiast ('la amante de la lectura').
The Same Word for Both
Remember, 'amante' is used for both men and women. You use 'el amante' when talking about a man, and 'la amante' when talking about a woman.
enamorado
eh-nah-moh-RAH-dohena.moˈɾa.ðo
Examples
Mi enamorado me envió un mensaje dulce.
My sweetheart/boyfriend sent me a sweet message.
Los enamorados se dieron la mano mientras caminaban.
The lovers (couple) held hands while they walked.
Gender Swap
When used as a noun, the gender changes the person you are talking about. 'El enamorado' is a male partner, and 'la enamorada' is a female partner.
amado
ah-MAH-dohaˈmaðo
Examples
El amado regresó después de un largo viaje.
The beloved returned after a long journey.
Ella espera la llamada de su amado.
She is waiting for the call from her loved one.
Used as a Noun
When used as a noun, 'amado' stands alone, replacing the name of the person. You must use an article (el, un, mi, su, etc.) before it.
amiguito
ah-mee-GEE-tohamiˈɣito
Examples
El director solo contrata a sus amiguitos, sin importar la experiencia.
The director only hires his cronies, regardless of experience.
¿Quién es ese amiguito que te trae flores todos los días?
Who is that 'friend' (implied lover) who brings you flowers every day?
Sarcasm and Tone
When used in contexts involving politics, business, or romantic secrets, the diminutive suffix amiguito can be sarcastic, suggesting the relationship is perhaps too close or not entirely honest.
querido
keh-REE-dohkeˈɾiðo
Examples
La película trata de un hombre que tiene una querida.
The movie is about a man who has a mistress.
Hola, querido, ¿qué tal el trabajo hoy?
Hi, darling, how was work today?
Se rumorea que el político le compró un piso a su querida.
It's rumored that the politician bought his mistress an apartment.
Amante vs. Amigo/Amiga
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