When to use tu vs vous in French

Choosing between "tu" and "vous" in French can be tricky for English speakers. These pronouns both mean "you," but they're used in different situations.

Informal "Tu"

Use "tu" for:

• Friends and family
• Children
• Pets
• God (in prayers)

Example: "Tu veux aller au cinéma?" (Do you want to go to the movies?)

Formal "Vous"

Use "vous" for:

• Strangers
• Elders
• Superiors at work
• Groups (plural "you")

Example: "Voulez-vous un café?" (Would you like a coffee?)

Tips for Choosing

• When in doubt, start with "vous"
• Listen to how others address you
• It's okay to ask, "On peut se tutoyer?" (Can we use "tu"?)

Remember, using the wrong form isn't a grave error, but using the right one shows respect and cultural awareness.