When it comes to Italian grammar, understanding the informal and formal ‘you’ can be very difficult. Below, Italian teacher Giulio G. shares some tips and tricks on how master this common Italian grammar conundrum…
In the Italian language, there are three ways to say ‘you’; tu (informal) Lei (formal) and Voi (plural). For beginner Italian students, it can be difficult to determine the correct form when speaking. After all, there’s only one ‘you’ in the English language.
Nonetheless, it’s important that you choose the correct form when conversing with others. This is especially important when you’re in formal settings; for example, when you’re first meeting someone, speaking with an older person, or addressing a person with higher rank or authority.
Below is an Italian lesson on mastering the informal and formal ‘you’:
Tu (Informal)
Typically, tu is used in everyday conversation. For example, you would use tu when talking to someone your own age or younger.
You may also use tu when speaking to someone that you know well, such as a friend or a family member. See examples below:
- Scusami, sai dov’è la stazione? (You are asking for directions to a person you already know)
- Claudia, vuoi venire a cena a casa nostra? (Claudia is a friend of yours)
- Non capisco questo esercizio. Me lo puoi spiegare (You are asking a friend of yours to explain an exercise to you)
Lei (Formal)
Lei is used in a more formal setting. For example, when a person addresses someone with whom he or she has a professional relationship, such as a colleague or professor.
It’s also used when a person starts a conversation with someone with whom he or she does not have any previous relationship. See examples below:
- Mi scusi, sa dov’è la stazione? (You are asking for directions to a complete stranger)
- Dottor Rossi, vuole venire a cena a casa nostra? (Dottor Rossi can be your boss, an elderly person, or an important figure)
Oftentimes, once you get to know an Italian they will ask you, “Possiamo darci del tu?“, which means they would like switch to the tu form now that they’re more comfortable with you.
Voi (Plural)
In the past, voi was often used as a formal way of addressing someone and showing respect; for example government officials or the Pope.
Oftentimes, children would use it to address their elders. See examples below:
- Padre, oggi indossate una così bella cravatta. (Father, you are wearing such a beautiful tie today.)
- Grandma, are you going to the Mass? (Grandma, are you gong to the Mass?)
- Vostra eminenza, potreste incontrarmi? Ho bisogno di un consiglio. (Your Eminence, could you meet me? I need advice.)
Voi, however, is no longer really used in normal social situations. Nonetheless, it’s important to be familiar with how to use it just in case.
Learning the Italian grammar rules for the informal and formal ‘you’ isn’t easy. However, working with your Italian teacher and practicing on your own is a good way to master this pesky Italian grammar rule.
Post Author: Giulio GiannettiGiulio Giannetti received his degree from the University of Florence in linguistics and intercultural relations and is currently getting his master’s degree at the University of Bologna. Find a language lesson near you.
Brooke Neuman