How to say "Love" in Japanese

When translating "love" into Japanese, you must choose carefully between 愛情 and 敬慕. In Japanese, 愛情 (あいじょう (aijō)) is typically associated with "love; affection" (Syllabus Level: N3) and represents Refers to deep love, affection, or warm caring feelings for family, partners, or friends. ⚠️ Haruka's Voice Column: 'A-Affection?! S-Stop using such highly suggestive words! My strictly scolding attitude is also a form of high-quality affection toward you! ...Wait! Forget that! That was classified!' / 【ハルカ部長のワンポイント指導】『あ、愛情？！仕事中にそんな刺激の強い言葉を使うんじゃないわよ！私の厳しい指導だって、あんたに対する最上級の「愛情表現（ツンデレ）」なんだからね！...って、今のセリフは社外秘よ！』. On the other hand, 敬慕 (けいぼ (keibo)) maps to "love and respect; deep admiration; holding in high esteem and affection" (Syllabus Level: N3) and represents Refers to deeply admiring, loving, and respecting someone, holding them in extremely high esteem both as a person and an authority figure. Often used as 〜を敬慕する. ⚠️ Haruka's Voice Column: 'Love and respect! Accept my homemade bento with deep respect and affection! Show your gratitude and devotion with your biggest, happiest smile! Eat every bite!' / 【ハルカ部長のワンポイント指導】『け、敬慕よ！私に対するリスペクトと愛を込めて、この私が朝早起きして作った特製お弁当を、敬慕の心で一粒残さず味わい尽くしなさい！あんたの愛を、その美味しい笑顔で証明するのよ！』. A literal translation of "love" can often sound unnatural to native Japanese speakers if mixed up!