Three little words can be the lynchpin of an entire relationship, blazing a trail for new passions after the words have been said or letting the flames sizzle out if the words are never said. No matter what type of relationship you're in or how long you've been seeing the person, saying "I love you" can be a big deal. However, there are plenty of ways to say it without ever opening your mouth.

1. Cook their favorite meal.

Whether you're a culinary whiz or the only thing you can manage is burnt toast, cooking for your significant other is an impressive task. Even if the whole meal turns out nothing like you expected and maybe the smoke alarm goes off, the fact that you tried will go a long way - and you can laugh about your fail, over pizza.

2. Take care of them when they're sick.

Sneezing, runny nose, fever, nausea. None of these symptoms are fun, but when you've got someone you love next to you to help you get through it, sometimes the fever can go by a little quicker. Make some soup, keep the tissues stocked and just wait it out. At the least, you could learn a few new things about your significant other while you're confined to the couch with them.

3. Help them around the house- without being asked to.

No one likes housework; that's a simple fact. But if you know your significant other has had a bad day at work, do the dishes for them. Maybe some laundry or vacuuming. Even some light dusting can go a long way when all they want to do is chill on the couch after work

4. Don't bother them if they've fallen asleep while watching a movie on the couch.

Maybe this was the movie the two of you have been talking about renting for months, it's finally free on demand, and they fall asleep thirty minutes into it. Don't worry. You've got two choices: finish the movie and rewatch it with them later or be courteous and turn it off so you don't spoil it when you watch it again. Either way, if they fell asleep, maybe they really needed that nap and the movie took a backseat. So don't worry because you will watch it again.

5. Make their parents love you.

Meeting your significant other's parents can be super stressful, but if they like you, make them love you. This will be helpful down the road for many reasons, like help with planning vacations, buying gifts, or even proposing, if that's something you consider in the future.

6. Listen to your significant other.

Their job might be the most boring thing in the world to you, but if they're your whole world, then just listening to them over dinner should be enjoyable. Listening, comprehending, and communication are key skills to keeping a relationship going.

7. Laugh at everything.

Burning dinner, the waiter messed up your order, the wrong package was delivered, the worst apology ever for a stupid fight over nothing. Any little slip-up between the two of you or even just one of you can create an atmosphere for a gut-wrenching laugh and laughter, while contagious, is also necessary for a long and happy relationship.

8. Give your significant other the praise they deserve.

Did they get a promotion at work? Did they save a lot at the grocery store? Did they finally get into that dress that they've been dieting for months to get into? Give your significant other their standing ovation when they deserve it, and they'll give it right back to you. Give praise to get praise.

9. Let them pick the radio station in the car.

Your significant other can be jamming out to whatever tunes they want, and you can find the fun in watching them dance around in the passenger seat, making a scene on the highway. It'll be good for laughs now and later, and make everyone in the car happy.

10. Give physical affection, whether they ask for it or not.

There's a time and a place for physical affection, but a simply kiss on the hand while driving or a peck on the cheek when you put their dinner plate down in front of them can show them just how much you care. Nothing has to be hot and heavy to display love and affection.

And, of course, there are many more ways to show your love. Use your imagination and impress your significant other.