You’re in a relationship with a really wonderful person and while things have gotten pretty serious, you’re not quite ready to utter the L-word. It’s not necessarily that you don’t feel it, you just want some more time to process and sit with your feelings before you make any big declarations. However, you want to say something to let the person know how much you care about them. If you’re not ready to say “I love you,” here are some alternative options that should do the trick.
I’VE NEVER MET ANYONE LIKE YOU IN MY WHOLE LIFE.
Obviously tone counts here — you don’t want to sound sarcastic or mention this when they’re doing something that annoys you. Let them know how unique you think they are and how much you love getting to know someone so different from everyone that came before.
2. YOU MAKE ME SO HAPPY.
This expression is classic. It’s a lot to say to someone that they’re contributing so much to your happiness. That’s a pretty big well to add to since you’re totally fulfilled and complete on your own, but they’re making a significant splash.
3. THERE’S NO ONE IN THE WORLD I’D RATHER BE WITH
This is a bold statement. I’m sure there are plenty of people in your life that you love, but you’ve chosen this person as the most important to spend time with. Pretty cute!
4. “IT WOULD BE A PRIVILEGE TO HAVE MY HEART BROKEN BY YOU.” — THE FAULT IN OUR STARS
Oh, author John Green. He’s such a lush. This quote is a unique slant on an “I love you.” It’s sort of saying that it’s better to have loved and lost than not at all because your partner is worth it. Why else would you be signing up for a broken heart? (Also, use this one at your own risk since it is kind of corny and not everyone’s cup of tea.)
5. BEING WITH YOU FEELS RIGHT TO ME.
This lets your partner know that they’re fitting snugly in your life. They’re right where they’re supposed to be and that’s in the front seat of your day-to-day. What a compliment.
6. I FALL MORE FOR YOU EVERY DAY.
Not only are you falling for them at this very moment, but you were also falling for them yesterday and will be tomorrow. Your feelings keep compounding into a beautiful pile of love.
7. I REALLY REALLY REALLY LIKE YOU.
Just because you’re not ready to say “I love you” doesn’t mean you don’t like them a whole lot. You’re allowed to go little kid style on your partner. Sometimes it can be super cute to say something silly like this. Plus, it gets the point across that you definitely feel strongly about them!
8. I LOVE WATCHING YOU [DO THAT THING YOU’RE GOOD AT].
Maybe it’s guitar, painting, writing, or some other thing, but you just adore watching them do it. It makes you fall for them even more to see them doing something they’re so passionate (and good) at.
9. I REALLY EFFIN’ CHERISH YOU.
The use of profanity gives it all the more oomph. It’s in your face and saying “listen to me!” Plus, the word cherish is a little antiquated and totally different, so your partner will know you really thought about this.
10. I’M LOVING WHERE WE’RE GOING.
This tells your partner that you’re happy with where you are and you’re also stoked about where you’re going. You have faith that it’s going to be something good.
11. I ADORE YOU. This is some puppy love stuff. Adoration is just a step away from love! Plus, it’s so cute and sweet. Who doesn’t want to be adored?
