When someone says “I love you,” it can catch you by surprise or warm your heart—depending on the moment, your feelings, and your relationship with the person.
You may want to respond with the same love, offer a gentle reply, or express appreciation without saying those three words back.
Different situations call for different responses. In romantic relationships, you might want to sound sweet or playful.
In uncertain moments, a thoughtful or respectful tone might be better. And in professional or careful settings, it’s important to be tactful.
This article gives you 120+ ways to respond—formally, informally, idiomatically, and professionally—so you’re never lost for words again.
Formal Ways to Say How to Respond When Someone Says I Love You
- I care deeply for you too
- Your feelings mean a lot to me
- I truly appreciate your honesty
- That’s very kind of you to share
- I’m honored by your words
- Thank you for being open with me
- I feel lucky to have your affection
- I value our connection greatly
- Your love is truly meaningful to me
- I hold you in high regard as well
- I admire you very much
- Your love touches my heart
- I deeply respect the bond we share
- Your words are heartfelt, thank you
- I see how much you care and I’m grateful
- I feel the same way in my heart
- I appreciate the depth of your feelings
- Your love does not go unnoticed
- That means more to me than I can say
- You’ve expressed something very special
Informal Ways to Say How to Respond When Someone Says I Love You
- Love you too!
- Right back at ya
- Aww, I love you more
- That just made my day
- You have my heart too
- I’ve been waiting to hear that
- Same here—so much
- You’re my favorite person
- Feeling’s mutual
- You’re amazing, and I love you too
- Can’t stop smiling now
- My heart’s all yours
- You know I do too, right?
- Of course I love you
- You’re everything to me
- This means the world to me
- I’ve got mad love for you
- Always have, always will
- You’re stuck with me now
- I love you way more
Idiomatic Ways to Say How to Respond When Someone Says I Love You
- You had me at hello
- I’m all in
- Head over heels for you too
- That’s music to my ears
- My heart just did a happy dance
- I’m falling for you more every day
- Love’s in the air, and I feel it too
- You’re the peanut butter to my jelly
- That just lit up my world
- You’re the one I’ve been waiting for
- Cupid’s got perfect aim
- Right back atcha, lovebug
- I’m riding this love train with you
- You’ve stolen my heart too
- My heart just skipped a beat
- That hit me right in the feels
- You’ve got me wrapped around your finger
- I’m floating on cloud nine
- You’re the one who makes my world spin
- I’m totally smitten too
Professional Ways to Say How to Respond When Someone Says I Love You
- I appreciate your honesty and openness
- Thank you for trusting me with your feelings
- I’m flattered, and I value our connection
- I respect your emotions and want to be clear in my response
- That’s a lot to take in—thank you for being sincere
- I’d like some time to reflect on how I feel
- I value you and want to handle this with care
- Thank you for being vulnerable and sharing this with me
- I’m honored by your words, and I hope to respond thoughtfully
- I hear you, and I want to make sure I respond with respect
- I appreciate your courage in saying that
- I care about our relationship and want to be honest
- Your feelings are valid and meaningful
- This is important, and I respect your heart
- I want to give your words the thought they deserve
- Thank you for trusting me with your heart
- I take what you’ve said seriously and respectfully
- I value our relationship, in whatever form it takes
- Let’s take some time to talk more about this
- I hope we can continue this conversation with care
Conclusion
Hearing “I love you” is a big moment, and how you respond matters.
Whether you feel the same way, aren’t quite sure yet, or need to express care without saying the words back—there’s always a right way to reply.
With over 120 expressions—formal, informal, idiomatic, and professional—this article gives you all the tools to reply with clarity, warmth, or grace, no matter the situation.
So next time someone says they love you, you won’t be left speechless—you’ll be ready to speak from the heart.
