Language is a beautiful and crucial part of human connection, and expressing emotions like love and affection is no exception. Estonian, the official language of Estonia, is rich with phrases and terms to express these heartfelt sentiments. Here is a collection of Estonian phrases you can use to show love and affection to your dear ones.

Armastus
The Estonian word for love itself is Armastus. This term encompasses the deep feeling of affection, similar to the English word “love.”
Ma tunnen sinu vastu suurt armastust.

Ma armastan sind
The direct translation of “I love you” is Ma armastan sind. This is the most straightforward way of expressing your love in Estonian.
Ei ole päeva, kui ma ei mõtleks, et ma armastan sind.

Kallis
A term of endearment that translates to “dear,” Kallis is often used to show affection. It is similar to the English use of “honey” or “darling.”
Tere hommikust, kallis.

Musirull
Another affectionate nickname is Musirull, which has no exact translation but is used similarly to “sweetie” or “cutie.”
Kuidas sul täna läinud on, musirull?

Musi
The word Musi means “kiss.” It’s typically used when asking for or giving a peck, similar to the English saying “Give me a kiss.”
Kas ma saan ühe musi?

Kallistus
For hugs, the Estonian word is Kallistus. It’s the action of embracing somebody to show affection.
Ma igatsen sinu kallistusi.

Südameke
Literal translation for “little heart,” Südameke is used to refer to someone affectionately, akin to saying “sweetheart.”
Sa oled minu väike südameke.

Minu arm
“Minu arm” translates to “my love,” and is used to refer affectionately to a loved one.
Õhtust, minu arm.

Igatsen sind
To express missing someone, you say “Igatsen sind,” which translates to “I miss you.”
Igatsen sind iga hetk, kui sa pole minuga.

Oled mulle väga kallis
When you want to express that someone is very dear to you, you use the phrase “Oled mulle väga kallis,” which means “You are very precious to me.”
Tahaksin, et teaksid, kui väga sa mulle kallis oled.

Näen sind hea meelega
For expressing the joy of seeing someone, Näen sind hea meelega translates to “I like seeing you” or “I enjoy your company.”
Iga kord on rõõmus sind näha.

By learning these Estonian phrases, you can convey your love and affection more personally and meaningfully. Whether you’re speaking to a partner, friend, or family member, these terms will surely warm the heart of any Estonian speaker. Remember that language learning is not only about grammar and vocabulary but also about the cultural nuances that make communication rich and fulfilling. Happy learning, and armastust (love)!