10 romantic French phrases to charm your crush

Some say it with flowers, some say it with chocolates. But, if you really want to up the ante this Valentine's Day, learn to charm your romantic interests in French. With French ranking among the world’s most romantic languages, impressing your crush ‘en français’ can help you show the true depths of your affections.

While most everyone knows the phrase, “je t’aime”, you’re going to have to work a lot harder for your French to stand out. With that in mind, we’ve put together a list of alternative ways to express your love in French to get you started. Read on for some of our favorite French phrases, brought to you in honor of Valentine’s Day (and ranked in order of amorous connection).

1. Tu as de beaux yeux

Translation: You have beautiful eyes

Starting off with a classic — who doesn’t love a compliment about their eyes?

2. J’adore ton sourire

Translation: I love your smile

Similarly, appreciating something simple like someone’s smile can go a long way.

3. Tu es charmante

Translation: You are charming

We’re getting straight to the point here. What better way to charm, than to appreciate the charm of someone else?

4. Tu me manques

Translation: I miss you.

There’s something about saying this in French that just makes it that bit more romantic. Wish your crush was there with you? Give this phrase a try.

5. Je veux être avec toi

Translation: I want to be with you

If you haven’t quite made your feelings clear yet, or you find yourself in a bit of a situationship, this one will help you lay your cards on the table.

6. Tu es ma joie de vivre

Translation: You’re the joy of my life

Getting into very romantic territory here with a French phrase that many people already know. A very sweet one that has the potential to melt even a cynical heart.

7. Tu es l'amour de ma vie

Translation: You're the love of my life

Following on from the last one, this takes things up another notch, with a true profession of love.

8. Je t’adore

Translation: I adore you

A great way to level up your “I love you”.

9. Je t'aimerai jusqu'à mon dernier souffle

Translation: I will love you till my last breath

We’re getting a little Shakespearean here, but if you really want to make the depths of your love known, this one’s for you. Plus it’s always fun to say the word “souffle”.

10. Je t'aime de tout mon cœur

Translation: I love you with all my heart

Ending on another lovely classic here — whether you’re saying this to your crush or simply to a loved one, you’re sure to make their day.