¿Cómo estás tú?
English: How are you? (informal)
- Language
- Spanish
- Level
- A1
- Unit
- Estructura de la oración y preguntas
- Practice types
- 0
What this grammar point covers
In Spanish, there are two main ways to say 'you': 'tú' (informal) and 'usted' (formal). These forms show the level of respect or familiarity you have with someone.
When to use it
Use 'tú' when speaking with friends, family, or people your own age. Use 'usted' when speaking with strangers, older people, or in formal situations.
Key forms
- tú + verb (informal)
- usted + verb (formal, verb in third person)
Examples
¿Cómo está usted?
English: How are you? (formal)
Tú tienes un libro.
English: You have a book. (informal)
¿Usted quiere café?
English: Do you want coffee? (formal)
Tips
- Remember: 'tú' uses the second person verb forms; 'usted' uses third person verb forms.
- Do not use 'tú' in formal situations; it can sound disrespectful.
- In some regions, people use 'usted' more often, even with family.
Exceptions and edge cases
- In some countries, 'vos' is used instead of 'tú' (called 'voseo'), but at A1 level, focus on 'tú' and 'usted'.