to love

JLPT N5 10 strokes

Words with this Kanji

Core Meaning and Usage

The character (ài) primarily means "to love" or "to be fond of." It is used both for deep emotional love, such as love for family or a partner, and for liking something, such as food or hobbies.

Common Collocations

  • (ài jiā): love family, expressing strong familial affection.
  • (ài chī): like to eat, commonly used to express fondness for certain foods.
  • 爱好 (àihào): hobby or interest, used to describe what someone enjoys doing.

Usage Notes

When is used with people, it usually implies strong emotional attachment. When used with objects or activities, it indicates preference or enjoyment. Avoid confusing with 喜欢 (xǐhuan), which is a lighter form of liking; is stronger and more emotional. is often followed by a noun or verb phrase to specify what is loved or liked.

Example Sentences

I love my family.

She really likes to eat chocolate.

He loves music and often goes to concerts.