The term “love languages” refers to the way that a person prefers to express and receive love from a partner. There are five different types of love languages. Words of affirmation, quality time, physical touch, acts of service, and giving/receiving gifts are the five love languages. Understanding love languages and being able to notice what someone’s love language is can be crucial in romantic and platonic relationships alike. It’s always best to understand the love language of your family, friends, partners, and yourself.

Sometimes, it can be hard to tell what someone’s love language is, but if you watch how they express their affection and react to certain behaviors, it can be done right away. There are obviously other things to look out for, but those two items are most beneficial and efficient. If someone clearly feels good after they receive a compliment, or if they tend to overthink things then it’s most likely that their love language is words of affirmation. If someone shows that they love hanging out with people one on one or in a group, their love language is probably quality time. When someone loves hugging people and they tend to be rather touchy, then their love language may be physical touch. When someone loves helping people or appreciates it when people help them, then acts of service is likely their love language. Lastly, when someone likes gift giving and getting, it’s very apparent that their love language is giving and receiving gifts.

People with different love languages often respond positively to different actions. Here are a few ideas for each love language:

• Words of Affirmation: Simple, nice notes, personal poems, making your love or friendship public are all great ideas.
• Quality Time: Doing anything together works, like a date or just hanging out. Even sitting in a room silent but together is good enough.
• Physical Touch: If the relationship is long distance, then touch bracelets work perfectly. Hugs, holding hands, kisses, and other physical signs of affection are ideal. Getting them a massage coupon or a blanket are good gift ideas.
• Acts of Service: There are a lot of things someone could do for this love language, like making them a home-cooked meal, cleaning up, and helping with school or work. Even simple acts of service can make them happy.
• Giving and Receiving Gifts: Giving something they specifically asked for or a meaningful and sentimental gift can work wonders. Make sure you put time and effort into your gifts. If you think it’s not good enough just because it’s small, trust that your intent will shine through.

Doing these things can improve your relationships, either romantic or platonic. Remembering this and doing these things will make people truly appreciate you and love that you are able recognize what their love language is. If you don’t know your own love language, you can take the five love languages quiz, and be sure to look out for the signs in yourself and those around you.