Love languages: what are they exactly? A language of love Express How we receive love others. The 5 love languages are words of affirmation, physical contact, quality time, acts of service and receiving gifts. Learning your love language and that of those around you can help you create stronger and deeper relationships.
Words of affirmation
When it comes to words, you need to be very careful about what you say, especially when you’re with someone who has this love language. Words will really mean a lot to them, maybe even more than your actions. People with this love language enjoy the compliments because it makes them feel loved. On the other hand, receiving insults and negative comments makes them feel hurt, and it may take them more time and effort to recover.
How to show it:
Show your appreciation
Affirm them with compliments
Be authentic and creative with your words
Actively listen
Examples:
Your outfit is superb.
I love you so much.
You are so pretty today.
I am so grateful to have you in my life.
You inspire me.
physical touch
Physical contact with people they love is very important to those who have this love language. It helps them feel more related with the person. They love hugs, kisses, hand holding and more. Physically demonstrating your love to this person is important; if you don’t, they may feel lonely or unloved.
How to show it:
Use your body language and touch to express your love
Examples:
Surprise them with a hug from behind
Sit close to the person
Cuddle while watching TV
Hold their hand
Give them a massage after a long day
quality time
Undivided attention is very important for those who have this love language. They like to know that those around them listen to them, care about what they say, and understand how they feel. Any activity is great, as long as you dedicate that time to them without distractions.
How to show it:
Spending time together without interruption
Focus all your attention on the person
Examples:
Go on a hike
Plan a road trip/weekend
Watch your favorite movie together
Leave your phones behind and talk about meaningful topics
Acts of service
Shares speak louder than words. People with this love language prefer to be shown that they are loved through actions rather than words. They really appreciate people going out of their way to make their lives easier. Little things like making them coffee, putting away the laundry, or walking the dog mean a lot.
How to show it:
Use action phrases
Do things without asking
Examples:
let me do this for you
Today I made… for you
I got you covered
Make them breakfast in bed
Help them with a project they are working on
To receive presents
People tend to assume that this love language is materialistic, but that’s not true. People with this love language feel loved and appreciated when they receive significant and reflexive gifts. The kindness of a gift means more than its dollar value. They usually take birthdays, anniversaries and holidays very seriously.
How to show it:
Put effort and thought into your gifts
Examples:
Buy them a book they wanted to get
Get their favorite treat from the store
Create a homemade gift
Give them your time and attention
Everyone portrays and evaluates love in their own way. Knowing your love language is a great tool to help you communicate your emotional needs to those around you. If you’re still not sure what your love language is, you can take this quiz to help you find out!
Thumbnail made by Alison Czinkota
