de usted
Lemma Details
Translation: formal 'you'; in the formal way; using the formal address
Part of Speech: phrase
Etymology: This phrase combines the preposition 'de' (from Latin 'de' meaning 'of/from') with 'usted', which evolved from the honorific address 'vuestra merced' (your mercy/grace) through phonetic reduction. 'Usted' represents the formal second-person singular pronoun in Spanish, contrasting with the informal 'tú'. The phrase 'de usted' indicates that something is done using the formal mode of address.
Commonality: 70%
Guessability: 40%
Register: formal
Example Usage
En España, los jóvenes ya casi no hablan de usted a los mayores.
In Spain, young people hardly ever use the formal address with older people anymore.
Por favor, hábleme de usted hasta que nos conozcamos mejor.
Please, address me formally until we get to know each other better.
En esta empresa tratamos a los clientes de usted.
In this company, we address clients formally.
Mnemonics
- Think of 'usted' as 'you-stated' - a more stated, formal way of addressing someone
- Remember that 'de usted' creates distance - the 'de' (of) puts space between you and the other person
Related Words, Phrases & Idioms
Synonyms
Cultural Context
In Spanish-speaking cultures, the distinction between formal ('usted') and informal ('tú') address is significant and reflects social hierarchies, respect, and distance. Using 'de usted' indicates maintaining formality and social distance with someone, typically used with elders, authority figures, or in professional contexts. The use of formal vs. informal address varies by country and region, with some Spanish-speaking countries being more formal than others. In Spain, for example, the use of 'usted' has decreased in recent decades, while in countries like Colombia, it remains very common.
Easily Confused With
Explanation: 'De usted' refers to the formal way of addressing someone, while 'de tú' refers to the informal way. They represent opposite levels of formality in Spanish.
This word:
Le hablo de usted porque es mi profesor.
I address you formally because you are my teacher.
Notes: The choice between 'usted' and 'tú' can significantly impact social interactions and how you are perceived in Spanish-speaking cultures.
Mnemonic: 'Usted' sounds more formal and distant, like 'you, sir/madam', while 'tú' is shorter and quicker, like casual conversation.