How to Say "they loved" in Spanish
The Spanish word for “they loved” is “querían” — A2 level. This is a very common word in everyday Spanish.
Examples
Mis abuelos se querían mucho cuando eran jóvenes.
My grandparents loved each other very much when they were young.
Ellas querían a sus mascotas como si fueran sus hijos.
They loved their pets as if they were their children.
Emotions are Imperfect
Feelings and emotions that lasted over time (like love, hate, or fear) almost always use the imperfect tense ('querían') because they describe an ongoing condition, not a single moment.
Using 'Amar' vs. 'Querer'
Mistake: “Overusing 'amar' (to love) in casual contexts.”
Correction: 'Querer' is more common for loving family, friends, or pets. 'Amar' is usually reserved for deep, romantic love or very intense adoration. 'Querían' is often the safer, more natural choice.
Related Translations
Learn Spanish with Inklingo
Interactive stories, personalized learning, and more.