How rude is it to use the informal instead of the formal version when addressing an adult?
Can anyone give me an equivalent situation in English?
2007-02-12 07:13:40 · 6 answers · asked by Collin 1 in Society & Culture ➔ Languages
My French teacher makes it seem like a huge deal.
2007-02-12 09:01:21 · update #1
It is not bad at all if you are on a level of friendship or intimacy.
For example if you call this person by their first name.
However, if there is a gap in society, for example your boss,
then you’d better use the formal version of ”vous”.
If you say ”Sir” or ”Mam” in English, it is certainly a ”vous” situation.
On the other hand there are French people who would address
a 12 to 14 year old ’child’ in the ”vous” form
You are welcome
2007-02-12 07:22:12 · answer #1 · answered by saehli 6 · 2⤊ 0⤋
It depends on what social distance you have with that adult. If you and the person are already on "tu" terms, no problem. But if you aren't, it would be "talking down" to them. Imagine how insulting it would be to an English-speaking adult if you spoke to them like you would speak to a child. It would be about like that. Very inappropriate.
2007-02-12 12:48:16 · answer #2 · answered by drshorty 7 · 0⤊ 0⤋
it's not that serious to say tu instead of vous but it depends on whether you have a friendly relationship with them or whether they are someone you must show respect to... but anyway it's not too serious!!
2007-02-12 08:54:59 · answer #3 · answered by Shaza 4 · 0⤊ 0⤋
It's a sign of respect and yes is considered a big deal.
2007-02-12 14:15:31 · answer #4 · answered by nerdy girl 4 · 0⤊ 0⤋
I guess i doesnt matter...but its just like being in english to aan audlt hey you(tu)! get me that...but, using vous is more polite saying Can you please (pourriez-vous) get me that...
2007-02-12 07:52:40 · answer #5 · answered by Anonymous · 0⤊ 0⤋
It's about showing respect to your elders......
2007-02-12 10:16:53 · answer #6 · answered by Anonymous · 0⤊ 0⤋