Tu vs. vous: different forms of “you”
Tu is the informal form of “you” that we use when talking to family, friends, children and animals.
Daddy, can you help me, please?
Hi Théo, how are you?
Kiki, you are my favorite dog!
Vous is the formal form of “you” used when talking to strangers or elderly people, and when we're addressing people in a professional context.
Sir, do you have the time, please?
Do you want my seat, madam?
How are you, Madam Director?
Note :
• We also use vous when addressing groups of people. In this case, it is the plural form of “you”:
Gentlemen, you are late!
Nadia and Roger, are you coming to my party?
• We use the verb tutoyer tutoyer, présent to refer to addressing someone using tu (informal “you”), while the equivalent verb for vous (formal “you”) is vouvoyer vouvoyer, présent.
‑You can address me as tu (informal “you”)! ‑No, I prefer to address you as vous (formal “you”).
Still having trouble with 'Tu vs. vous: different forms of “you”'? Master the rules of French grammar and improve your French level thanks to our online French lessons Frantastique. We're offering a 7-day free trial, so what are you waiting for?
What our users say:
Looking to improve French for beginners? Frantastique provides effective and fun training!
Tips for learning 'Tu vs. vous: different forms of “you”'? Share them with us!
