Welsh for “I Love You” – Meaning, Pronunciation and Variations

Welsh for “I Love You”

The Welsh phrase for “I love you” is:

Rwy’n dy garu di

This is the standard, more formal version used across Wales. It’s widely understood and appropriate in both written and spoken Welsh.

In everyday conversation, you’ll often hear slightly more relaxed variations.

Different Ways to Say “I Love You” in Welsh

Welsh has a few natural variations depending on tone, region, and context:

• Rwy’n dy garu di – formal or standard Welsh
• Dw i’n dy garu di – common spoken version
• Caru ti – informal, often used in texts or casual speech
• Caru chdi – North Wales variation

All of these express the same sentiment, but choosing the right one can make your phrasing feel more natural and personal.

How to Pronounce It

Rwy’n dy garu di is roughly pronounced:

“roo-in duh gah-ree dee”

Welsh pronunciation can feel unfamiliar at first, but it becomes intuitive with a little practice. Even a simple attempt is usually appreciated—especially when expressing something heartfelt.

When and How it is Used

“I love you” in Welsh can be used in much the same way as in English. You might hear it:

• between partners and spouses
• within families
• in letters, cards, and messages
• on meaningful gifts and keepsakes

The shorter forms like “Caru ti” are especially common in informal, affectionate contexts.

The Meaning Behind the Words

The phrase comes from the verb “caru”, which means to love.

You may also come across the word:

• Cariad – meaning love, darling, or my love

It’s one of the most recognisable and cherished Welsh words, often used as a term of endearment.

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Explore More Welsh Words and Phrases

• Lots of love - Llawer o gariad.
• Love/darling - Cariad.
• Lots of love from - Llawer o gariad oddi wrth. 
• Fall in love - Syrthio mewn cariad.
• In love - Mewn cariad
• Do you have a boyfriend/girlfriend? - Oes cariad ‘da ti? (south) / Oes gen ti gariad? (north).

Romantic Welsh Words and Phrases

If you’re exploring Welsh as a romantic or meaningful language, here are a few related expressions:

• Cariad – My love
• Llawer o gariad – Lots of love
• Mewn cariad – In love

These phrases are often used in cards, messages, and gifts, adding a distinctive Welsh touch.

Welsh Words, Welsh Sayings, Welsh Phrases

This Page forms part of the Welsh Words section of this website which gives an English language translation for useful Welsh words, phrases and sayings.