Love can mean many things, and each of us tends to define it in our own unique way. Often, we use the word to express deep care or a strong connection to someone—or even something. You might say you love your new shoes, your parents, your pet, or your partner. But when it comes to being in love with someone, what does that really mean? How do we put into words the experience of falling or being in love?

Different kinds of love exist, and while they’re all powerful and meaningful, they differ depending on the person and the situation.

So before we dive deeper into what it means to truly love someone, it’s worth exploring what love actually is. At its core, love is often described as a profound feeling of affection. It’s not just about romance or physical attraction—it’s layered, complex, essential, and, in many ways, mysterious.

We use the word “love” all the time. You love your favorite TV series. You love your grandma. You love your friend’s new haircut. But there's a difference between fondness and being in love. Being in love is deeper—more intense—and can completely consume your thoughts and emotions.

# You genuinely care about them

Yes, it sounds obvious but when you’re truly in love, you care deeply. You care about their well-being, their happiness, and even the little things, like that long-winded story about their workday simply because they are the one telling it.
You show you care in meaningful ways: maybe by waking up early to make their favorite coffee or checking in during a busy day just to ask how they’re doing.

# You’re willing to compromise

Love involves considering your partner’s needs and wants, even when they differ from yours. It means finding middle ground during disagreements and making adjustments when needed not because you have to, but because you want to. And they do the same for you, without keeping score.

# You trust them

Love and trust often go hand in hand. While love doesn’t automatically build trust, it lays the foundation for it. Being in love makes you want to believe in them—and over time, that trust grows stronger.

# You communicate openly

Being in love makes you want to share your life—your past, your dreams, your random thoughts. Whether it’s celebrating a win at work or ranting about traffic, you want to talk to them about everything.
Communication also means working through conflicts together and expressing love, even during tough conversations.

# Their happiness matters to you

When you’re in love, their joy brings you joy. You go out of your way—through thoughtful gestures big or small—to make them smile. It’s not about grand romantic acts; often, it’s the simple things that speak the loudest.

# You forgive more easily

Love doesn’t require forgiveness, but it certainly encourages it. You don’t hold onto petty fights or grudges—you work through them and move forward. Love helps you focus on the good and practice patience, knowing that no one is perfect.
(That said, love should never be an excuse to tolerate the unforgivable, like betrayal or abuse.)

# You grow and learn from each other

In a loving relationship, you value their perspective. You’re curious about how they see the world and open to learning from their experiences—just as they are with you. You grow together, teaching and inspiring one another.

# You invest your time and energy

Love is about presence, not presents. It’s the time you spend, the effort you make, and the energy you put into the relationship. Whether you're miles apart or in the same room, you prioritize staying connected.

# You laugh together

Laughter is a key ingredient in love. It brings joy, relieves tension, and allows you to enjoy each other’s company on a lighthearted level. Sharing humor deepens your bond in the most effortless way.

# You feel comfortable being yourself

True love allows you to drop the mask. You can be completely yourself—snorts, quirks, messy hair and all—and still feel loved. That comfort turns into a beautiful kind of closeness where it almost feels like you’re two parts of a whole.

# You feel like a better version of yourself

Love inspires growth. You find yourself becoming less selfish and more thoughtful. Being with them brings out a side of you that wants to improve—not out of obligation, but out of inspiration.

# You simply want to be around them

You don’t need to be together 24/7, but you genuinely look forward to spending time with them. Being near them brings comfort, even during difficult times. Their presence becomes your safe space.