usted
formal, Colombia
Colombians use usted for "you" far more than most Spanish speakers, even with friends and family. Tú and vos are informal and depend on the region. It is also called sumercé.
Meaning: second person pronoun (pron)
Ways to say it
| Spanish | Note |
|---|---|
| usted | formal, Colombia |
| tú | informal |
| vos | informal, regional |
| sumercé | regional |
Usted is polite but not cold in Colombia. Parents may use it with children, and couples may use it with each other.
Is it said differently in some regions?
Vos is common in Antioquia and Cali, tú is used on the Caribbean coast, and sumercé (from su merced) is heard around Bogotá and Boyacá.
Did you know?
- Colombian Spanish is known for using usted so widely that many foreigners start using it by default.
Examples in context
- ¿Usted cómo se llama?What is your name?
- Tú eres muy amable.You are very kind.
- ¿Vos de dónde sos?Where are you from?
Example conversation
Tourist Emma asks a taxi driver a question in Bogotá.
- EmmaDisculpe, ¿usted conoce este lugar?Excuse me, do you know this place?
- TaxistaClaro, yo la llevo.Of course, I will take you.
- EmmaMuchas gracias.Thank you very much.
