ELI5: Explain Like I'm 5

Forms of address in Spain

Hey kiddo, in Spain, there are different ways to address people depending on their age or the relationship you have with them. Let's break down some of the most common forms of address!

1. "Tú" (2nd-person singular informal): This is used when you talk to someone your age or younger, your best friends, or anyone you have a close relationship with. It's like saying "you" in English.

2. "Usted" (3rd-person singular formal): This is used when you talk to adults, people in positions of authority, or strangers that you don't know very well. It's like saying "sir" or "madam" in English.

3. "Vosotros" (2nd-person plural informal): This is used when you talk to a group of friends or people your age. It's like saying "you guys" or "y'all" in English, and it's only used in Spain.

4. "Ustedes" (3rd-person plural formal): This is used when you talk to a group of people that you don't know very well, or in a formal or professional setting. It's like saying "you all" in English.

5. "Señor"/"Señora" (Mr./Mrs.): This is used to show respect to someone older than you or in a position of authority. You can address someone as "Señor" or "Señora" before their first name or last name.

6. "Don"/"Doña" (Mr./Mrs.): This is used to show even more respect than "Señor" or "Señora," and it's usually used for older people or people with higher social status. You can address someone as "Don" or "Doña" before their first name or last name.

Remember kiddo, it's important to use the appropriate form of address depending on the situation and the person you're talking to. It shows respect, politeness, and good manners!