Describe to him other friendships you have like this so he understands it’s not all about him.

You say how you feel. If your friend needs clarification or interpretation, he needs to ask. Love doesn't always require that a consummation take place.

You just say it. I tell my married female friend that I love her all the time. I don't say it because I am bi, I say it because I just love her. If you have written to any of your female friends or have told any of them the same words, explain it to the gent that you love him like you love your female friends. Ideally, explain that you love him like a human and that is all. He is the one with the problem and not you. Good luck. <3

I don't use words. I do things that I know they like.

I just wouldn't say that to a friend of the opposite sex. Tell him he's your best friend or something.

Buy them a box of nice cookies (or something they like) instead of verbalising it.

"You're a good friend, decent human, and I couldn't love you more".

I say "I love ya, Buddy!"

Be yourself. Explain it as you just did. You can't manage others interpretations or feelings.

I don't say it as much as show it.

That's on him and sad if he can't comprehend that there are alllllll kinds and levels of love.
If it bothers him that much just stop saying it I guess.
If that were me in this situation I'd be upset they didn't know me well enough to read my tone or know how I am.

"You're so intelligent, I love that about you." Comes out differently than "I love you." Or just say "You're such a great friend." It gets the message across.

Like a brother sister love not a rip off your clothes love?

I love them by trivial affections. some people do big things once a year. i like to do little things everyday

"I love you but i don't want to get married"

Might wanna try...

Can I buy you some tacos ?

I would maybe say, "I adore you". Or just explain it's a different kind of love.

How would I say that?..let me think for a sec here..... How about "I love you but I don't want to marry you"?

You didn't clarify whether he was on the positive or negative receiving end of that sentiment? Is he scared of the words and the commitment that he assumes from them, or are you scared of the commitment he wants to impose on you?

You have to take children off the table, then pay your fair share of expenses. This will give you the indepenece you need but allow you to enter a relationship as more or less a business partner.

Explain to him that you do do feel a deep emotional connection to him and that you do greatly enjoy spending time with him -- but that this does not mean that you are driven to have sex with him. Or, if that is the case, that you have chosen not to act on any sexual thoughts.

I tell my close female friends I love them, never been an issue. Its never even be discussed. It just happens natural I suppose. It seems like he's thinking to hard about. Same with my close male friends. I grew up south/midwest so perhaps it's a regional thing

I love you as a person
I love you as a friend
I love you as a human
I love you but I'm not IN LOVE with you....
I love you...but don't try to break out of the friend zone....

Just add "man" to it, "I love you, man."

You have said it well here, tell him that.