What's love got to do with it?

Love is not 1 dimensional. If you mean “romantically,” it’s up to each individual.

Love, is a BIG deal. But can encompasse many different types of people in your world.

As with most relationships, communication is key. TALK to the person whom you are asking about.

There are many types of love and many people who think they know what love is.
I met a guy once who had been married for a very long time. His children were grown and gone. And one day his wife wanted a divorce.
Some time later this guy meets this beautiful girl, and he falls madly in love with her. But when they broke up, he was devastated! And he confessed to me that he never loved his wife as much as he loved this girl!
So, who can say, really?
If you find real love, you’ll remember it forever. If you find some kind of other love, and you think it’s real, then good luck to you, and may you find happiness in your life.

People demonstrate love in many ways besides saying three words.

Do they make you feel special when they see you? Do they make sure your needs are met before theirs? Do they remember small things that are minor but important to you, like the way and when you like your coffee, or your favorite dessert?

@zenvelo and the reverse, do you feel all these things?Love is a two way street. Are they the most important thing in your life? I have been married 43 years, and I don’t want any other partner.

I told my GF of six months in high school I loved her so I could get laid. It worked.

Just saying words don’t mean much if you are with a dude like me.

Love often requires sacrifice without acknowledgement. There are all the times that people have stayed up all night nursing a loved one. Lots of times people have sacrificed their time, energy or money to help somebody else. If they are fortunate they get thanked, but if we are talking about real love, a thank you is not necessary. And of course it’s not uncommon to hear of a parent who would (or did) gladly give up their life to save their child.

@YARNLADY yes, I feel that, and take reassurance from those small acts. But my partner and I both vocalize, too. My response was to reassure the OP that there are many ways to realize one is loved.

Would you and or he miss you if either left?
Say “I love You” to him and listen for HIS response.
Also discuss calmly with him stating that you need him to express this in words to you and why.