Les salutations et les adieux

In French, there are two ways to address someone as you. There is a formal you, vous, and informal you, tu.

• Vous is used when you want to address someone with respect. Vous is often used with elders, professionals, people in positions of authority, or strangers.
• Vous is for the plural form as well, when you are talking directly to two or more people.
• Tu is used with children, peers, and people with whom you are quite familiar. Some families use tu with parents and grandparents but others do not.

Some countries speak more formally or informally than others. Listen to people around you and use your instincts. Don’t worry if you do not use the best option with someone. They will know you are learning.

Worst case scenario, someone might correct you. I have never known anyone to be offended by a learner.

Listen for context to the song: “Dites-moi tu” by Karpatt