What Does “I Adore You” Mean?

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Uncover the possibilities of this friendly or flirtatious phrase

Co-authored by Kristina Mirgorodskaya and Aly Rusciano

Last Updated: November 9, 2023 Fact Checked

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“I Adore You” Definition

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“I Adore You” vs. “I Love You

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How to Respond

So, someone recently told you they adore you, and now you’re left scratching your head. Does this mean they love you? If your friend said it, could they be hitting on you? These are all valid questions, especially from such a confusing phrase! Generally, “I adore you” means someone cares deeply for you, whether that’s romantically or platonically. In this article, we’ll break down the meaning of “I adore you” and explain how it can be used in different contexts (with examples) and how you can respond.

Things You Should Know

“I adore you” is an affectionate phrase that shows respect or admiration.
“I adore you” can be used platonically or romantically, so it’s important to consider the context of the conversation and who you’re talking to.
Respond to “I adore you” by expressing gratitude or repeating the phrase back to them.

Section 1 of 3:

“I Adore You” Definition

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“I adore you” is used to express strong feelings of admiration. This phrase can be used romantically or platonically to say, “Hey, I care deeply about you” or “I respect you.”^{[1]
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Research source} For instance, a friend may use the phrase after you do something silly in a joking manner, or a significant other may say it while you’re on a date. Overall, “I adore you” means someone cares deeply for you and wants to show their admiration or love.
- Pay close attention to the context in which “I adore you” is used. If your crush says it with a wink, they’re likely hitting on you. If a friend says it after you do them a favor, they’re probably just saying thanks. Take a look at these examples:
- In a romantic context:
  - I adore you more than words could ever describe. You mean the world to me.
  - I adore everything about you. Your kind heart. Your mesmerizing eyes. Everything.
  - Sally, I adore you. Let’s never leave each other’s sides.
- In a platonic context:
  - I’m so grateful to have you in my life—I adore you!
  - Sam, you’re a gem! I adore you for this!
  - I adore my sister. She means the world to me.

Section 2 of 3:

Does “I adore you” mean “I love you”?

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While “I adore you” is an expression of love and admiration, it’s not the same as saying “I love you” in a romantic relationship. Think of “I adore you” as a step toward “I love you.” First, we have “I like you,” then “I adore you,” and finally, “I love you.” As your relationship progresses, you may catch yourself or your partner saying, “I adore you,” to test out the future waters of “I love you.”

Section 3 of 3:

How to Respond to “I Adore You”

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The easiest way to respond to “I adore you” in any situation is to say, “I adore you, too.” This mirrors their sentiment and shows that you care for them just as much. Whether it’s a friend or significant other, return the compliment with a similar tone to let them know you love them in the same way.
in response. If you’re not sure if you care as deeply for them, accept the compliment with gratitude.^{[2]
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Trustworthy Source

Harvard Business Review
Online and print journal covering topics related to business management practices

Go to source} This response works great with friends who are being silly or crushes or dates you’re not ready to take the next step with yet.
Smile and get flirty. If your crush, partner, or significant other says, “I adore you,” express your admiration and like for them with a flirtatious smile and romantic comment. Try giving them a wink or complimenting what you admire about them.^{[3]
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Research source}