e tu
/ˈe ˈtu/word by word
The phrase and you in Italian is e tu.
This phrase is used to ask the same question back to the person who just asked it.
What does it mean word for word?
The word e means and and tu means you (singular, informal).
Which one should you use?
While e tu is used for individuals, use e voi if you are asking the question back to a group of two or more people. For a single person in a formal context, use e Lei.
How does it change in a sentence?
The phrase uses the informal singular pronoun tu.
How do you pronounce it?
/ˈe ˈtu/
Did you know?
- In Italian, you can often omit e tu entirely and simply say tu? with a rising intonation to ask 'and you?'
- The word tu is a direct relative of the English word 'thou', as both originate from the same Proto-Indo-European root *túh₂.
- Using e tu when e Lei is expected can be interpreted as a deliberate 'sfregio' or a social slight to show a lack of respect.
Examples in context
- Sto bene, e tu?I am fine, and you?This is useful for returning a greeting like 'I am fine'.Tatoeba #1392286 by Guybrush88, translation #872223 by japegon
- E tu, come stai?And you, how are you?This shows how to lead into a question about someone's well-being.Tatoeba #661196 by rado, translation #388264 by Dorenda
- Sono ceco, e tu?I'm Czech, and you?This is used to return a question about one's nationality.Tatoeba #10212414 by Guybrush88, translation #10181720 by ddnktr
- Sto bene, grazie. E Lei?I'm well, thank you. And you?
- Tutto bene, grazie. E tu?All good, thank you. And you?
- 35 more sentences on Tatoeba
Example conversation
Matteo and Giulia are meeting at a cafe.
- MatteoCiao Giulia, come stai?Hi Giulia, how are you?
- GiuliaBene, grazie. E tu?Fine, thanks. And you?
- MatteoTutto bene, grazie.Everything is good, thanks.
- GiuliaChe bello vederti!How nice to see you!
Sources
- IPA marked “word by word” joins the Wiktionary pronunciations of each word (e, tu) and can differ in connected speech.
- Word origins: Wiktionary entries e, tu, CC BY-SA 4.0.
- Example sentences: Tatoeba CC BY 2.0 FR.
