aimer

Senses

1. 1.

   to love

   to have deep affection or romantic feelings for someone

2. 2.

   to like

   to enjoy or have a preference for something

3. 3.

   to prefer (+ infinitive)

   to like better; used with infinitive verbs to express preference

Examples

• "Je t'aime."

  I love you.

• "Elle aime les films de science-fiction."

  She likes science-fiction films.

• "J'aime mieux rester à la maison ce soir."

  I would rather stay at home tonight.

Usage

The most common verb in French for both romantic and non-romantic affection. The distinction between *aimer* (love/like) and *aimer bien* (like more, enjoy) is subtle; *aimer* is stronger but widely used for simple preferences too. Avoid confusing *aimer* with *aimer bien* or *préférer* in formal writing.