English Idioms
Comprehensive resource for understanding and mastering English idioms
Those three little words
Meaning
The idiom "those three little words" refers to the phrase "I love you." It is a popular and common way of expressing affection, especially in romantic relationships. However, it can also be used more broadly to convey any type of deep love or admiration.
Usage
- I knew she loved me when she said those three little words.
- After years of dating, he finally told her those three little words that she had been waiting for.
- The couple exchanged those three little words during their wedding ceremony.
- My grandparents always say those three little words to each other before going to bed.
- The singer uses those three little words in his hit song to express his love for his fans.
Roots and History
The exact origin of the phrase "those three little words" is unclear, but it is believed to have originated in the 19th century when romantic poetry often used the phrase "I love thee" as a way of expressing affection. Over time, the phrase became more commonly used as a casual expression of love, especially in popular culture.
Synonyms in English
- I adore you
- I cherish you
- You mean the world to me
- You're my everything
- I'm in love with you
Synonyms in other languages
- French: "Je t'aime"
- Spanish: "Te quiero"
- Italian: "Ti amo"
- German: "Ich liebe dich"
- Japanese: "私はあなたを愛します" Each of these translations carries its own cultural and regional variations, but they all convey the same meaning of deep love or admiration.