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Languages and Linguistics

Foolacious

(518 posts)

4. It also depends on where you are.

Reply to Montauk6 (Original post)

Wed Jul 27, 2022, 11:56 AM

Jul 2022

In my area (southwestern Mexico) we use "tú" for almost everybody right away. If they are older or in a position of authority, "usted" is better initially, but almost invariably we move to "tú" quickly -- upon second meeting, for example. The only exception I can think of is if they are older AND in a position of authority -- then we are likely to remain with "usted" indefinitely.

"Tú" is also used on billboards and official highway signage here.

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Classroom vs IRL: Spanish 2nd Person [View all] Montauk6 Jul 2022 OP

I would think so, especially if they are older or in a position of authority.nt Phoenix61 Jul 2022 #1

My Mexican ladies who come every day always use the formal usted to me, but maybe that's Karadeniz Jul 2022 #2

And then there is Vos! Croney Jul 2022 #3

It also depends on where you are. Foolacious Jul 2022 #4

This is great stuff, folks, muchas gracias! :) Montauk6 Jul 2022 #5

In my experience, Mexicans use tu with everyone. PoindexterOglethorpe Oct 2022 #6

It boils down to a simple concept: GreenWave Dec 2022 #7

See? Ya loin sumpin' every day! 😊 Montauk6 Dec 2022 #8

I ran a language department for two decades. GreenWave Dec 2022 #9