Vous, Tu, Who

'Vous', 'Tu', 'Who'


can be confusing when coming to a Francophone world and not really understanding the important implication. I learned how to use the 'vous' & 'tu' but I barely scratched the surface as to why. My goodness, the why is IMPORTANT! For my English speaking blog followers it is the sign of respect. Saying 'yes sir' or 'no ma'am' in French does not translate the same. It is the use of 'vous' and not 'tu'. And, I have made some mistakes while here. I think just to be safe I will speak with the 'vous' with everyone including babies!

It's an exercise trying to switch back and forth. This past weekend with Anouck's parents, offering my seat on the subway, being out with people you know and then turning up at a restaurant or shopping store, oh yeah, 'It's an exercise.' And, if I embarrassed, nervous, and in a new surrounding I fumble and jumble everything I want to say. Bienvenue a francophone!

I wouldn't even think of saying yes sir to someone in the states who was in their 30's (they would stop you claiming that they're not that old yet if you did) but here anybody older than you, anybody in authority, or anybody with a higher status is the authority in the relationship. Very interesting.