love
/lʊv/
A versatile term that spans a spectrum from primal biological attachment to spiritual devotion and casual preference. It carries an overwhelmingly positive connotation, though it can imply vulnerability or obsession depending on the context. In personal relationships, it represents a profound emotional bond characterized by intimacy and care. This differs from 'like', which denotes preference or enjoyment without the intensity of deep commitment. In casual usage, the word is often hyperbolized to mean 'strongly enjoy' (e.g., "I love this pizza"). In these instances, it loses its weight as a lifelong bond and becomes a marker of high enthusiasm.
Uncountable when referring to the general emotion of affection ('Love is all you need'). Countable when referring to a specific person who is loved ('He is the love of my life').
💬Casual Conversation
David's on a warpath. Please tell me you love these new mockups.
I'm barely awake, but yeah, they're fire.
Meanings
Collocations & Compounds
unconditional love
Love without any limits or conditions.
fall in love
To begin to feel love for someone.
forbidden love
A romantic relationship that is not allowed by social, legal, or religious rules.
eternal love
Love that lasts forever.
labor of love
Work done for the pleasure of doing it rather than for money or reward.
Phrasal Verbs
love up
to express affection through kissing and hugging
The couple loved up in the corner of the room during the party.
Idioms & Sayings
love at first sight
An immediate feeling of love upon meeting someone for the first time.
labor of love
Work done for interest or affection rather than for money.
tough love
Disciplining someone strictly to help them in the long run.
love is blind
The tendency to overlook the faults of a person one loves.
for the love of money
Driven by an intense desire for wealth, often leading to unethical behavior.