In Spanish we use tú (too) and usted (oos-tehd), which both mean “you,” to convey the formality of a relationship. Tú is less formal than usted. We use tú when we are talking to someone of the same age, the same rank, or the same educational level.

Usted is a more respectful way of talking to someone, such as a new acquaintance, an older person, or someone you consider to be of higher rank or anyone to whom you wish to show respect. Use Usted with authority figures and most strangers.