A1pronounhigh_frequency_chunk

You

UK /["/ju//juː/"]/US /["/jə//juː/"]/

Definition

used as the subject or object of a verb or after a preposition to refer to the person or people being spoken or written to

In simple words: A word used to talk about the person or people you are speaking to.

Examples

  • You said you knew the way.
  • I thought she told you.
  • Can I sit next to you?
  • I want both of you to help.
  • I don't think that hairstyle is you *(= it doesn't suit your appearance or personality)*.
  • You girls, stop talking!
  • You stupid idiot!
  • You learn a language better if you visit the country where it is spoken.
  • It's a friendly place—people come up to you in the street and start talking.
  • I wish you and yours all the best for the year ahead!

Usage notes

Commonly used in both spoken and written English. It is appropriate in most situations but can feel too direct in very formal contexts.

Grammar pattern

standalone pronoun

Memory hint

Think of 'u' as a shortcut—'u' stands for 'you'.

Collocations

  • you are
  • you know
  • you see

Synonyms

  • thou
  • youse
  • ya

Antonyms

  • I
  • he
  • she
  • they

Common mistakes

  • Confused with 'your' vs 'you're'.
  • Using 'you' to refer to someone else instead of the person you are speaking to.
  • Misunderstanding the plural form 'you' in addressing multiple people.