toi aussi
The English phrase "you also" is translated into French as toi aussi.
This phrase is used to indicate that a statement or quality also applies to the person being addressed.
What does it mean word for word?
The phrase is composed of the stressed pronoun toi (you) and the adverb aussi (also/too).
Which one should you use?
toi aussi is the informal version used when speaking to one person, while vous aussi is used when addressing multiple people or when using the formal form of address.
How does it change in a sentence?
When addressing more than one person, or when you wish to show respect by using the formal pronoun, you should use vous aussi instead of toi aussi.
What mistakes should you avoid?
Avoid using the subject pronoun to say "you also". Instead of tu aussi, you should use the stressed pronoun toi aussi.
Did you know?
- If you are having a heated argument with someone, responding with toi aussi can feel like a direct linguistic slap, as the choice between formal and informal pronouns can transform a simple agreement into a declaration of social war.
- The word aussi is a linguistic hybrid, combining the Latin words alid meaning 'other' and sīc meaning 'so'.
- In France, shifting from vous aussi to toi aussi during a conversation is a significant social move called 'tutoiement' that signals a transition to a closer or more intimate friendship.
Examples in context
- Es-tu Allemand toi aussi ?Are you also German?This sentence is useful for practicing the use of toi aussi in a question.Tatoeba #3939491 by nimfeo, translation #3303986 by Hybrid
- Je vous souhaite une excellente journée. – Merci, de même.I wish you an excellent day. – Thank you, likewise.
- Oh, toi aussi ? C'est tellement relaxant !Oh, you also? It's so relaxing!
- Oui, pareillement !Yes, likewise!
- Tu viens à la fête, toi aussi ?You are coming to the party, you too?
- Tu es fatigué, toi aussi ?You are tired, you too?
Example conversation
Chloé and Gabriel are saying goodbye after a party.
- ChloéPasse une bonne soirée, Gabriel !Have a great evening, Gabriel!
- GabrielMerci, toi aussi !Thanks, you too!
- ChloéÀ bientôt alors.See you soon then.
- GabrielOui, à bientôt !Yes, see you soon!
Sources
- Word origins: Wiktionary entries aussi, toi, CC BY-SA 4.0.
- Example sentences: Tatoeba CC BY 2.0 FR.
