Tu or Vous? 5 Rules to Help You Choose

Summary

In this episode of Comme une Française TV, Géraldine explores the tricky French etiquette of using 'tu' or 'vous' when addressing people. She explains that while there's no hard rule, 'vous' is generally used to show respect, especially with superiors, elders, or strangers, while 'tu' is for friends, peers, and informal situations. Géraldine offers practical guidelines, such as when to switch from 'vous' to 'tu' and what to do if you're unsure. The video encourages viewers to practice their French and share their experiences in the comment section.

Takeaways

• 😊 There’s no strict rule for choosing between 'tu' or 'vous', and even French people can be unsure.
• 👍 As a foreigner, people will be more forgiving if you use 'tu' instead of 'vous'.
• 🤔 When unsure, always default to using 'vous' to avoid being overly familiar.
• 🙇 'Vous' shows respect and should be used with superiors, older people, and strangers.
• 👥 'Tu' indicates familiarity and is used with friends, colleagues you know well, children, and teenagers.
• 💼 Use 'vous' in professional contexts with bosses, colleagues (initially), and formal situations.
• 🌟 Use 'tu' in casual settings, social events, and when someone invites you to do so.
• 😅 Transitioning from 'vous' to 'tu' can feel awkward, but it’s a normal part of the process.
• 🤝 If someone asks to switch to 'tu', always agree and switch immediately.
• 📈 Your French will only improve if you practice, so engage with others and share your experiences.

Q & A

What is the main topic of the video?

The main topic of the video is whether to use 'tu' or 'vous' when speaking to someone in French, and how to navigate the rules surrounding this choice.

What is the fundamental rule regarding the use of 'tu' and 'vous'?

There is no strict rule for using 'tu' or 'vous.' Just like choosing whether to kiss or shake hands, even French people can feel uncertain or uncomfortable about which form to use in some situations.

What is the recommended approach if you’re unsure whether to use 'tu' or 'vous'?

If you're unsure, it's better to use 'vous,' as it’s seen as more polite. Using 'vous' avoids sounding overly familiar.

In which situations should you use 'vous'?

'Vous' should be used to show respect. It is appropriate to use 'vous' with your boss, colleagues, neighbors, people older than you (by 20 years or more), people you don’t know, your in-laws, and professionals like teachers, doctors, or officials.

When is it appropriate to use 'tu'?

'Tu' is used to show familiarity. You should use it with your friends, partner’s friends, children, teenagers, colleagues you've known for a while, people who ask you to use 'tu,' and at networking events where everyone is more casual.

How do you transition from using 'vous' to 'tu'?

The transition from 'vous' to 'tu' usually involves an awkward moment, but it's normal. The other person may ask, 'On se tutoie?' or 'Je peux te tutoyer?' If they ask, you should always say yes and switch to 'tu' right away.

What is the verb for using 'vous' in French?

The verb for using 'vous' is 'vouvoyer.'

What is the verb for using 'tu' in French?

The verb for using 'tu' is 'tutoyer.'

How should you respond if someone asks if they can use 'tu' with you?

You should always say yes when someone asks if they can use 'tu' with you, and then immediately start using 'tu' in return.

How does the video encourage viewers to improve their French?

The video encourages viewers to take action by using what they’ve learned in real life. It also suggests sharing experiences in the comment section to engage with others and learn more.