What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
you
Example
Can you pass me the salt, please? [you: pronoun]
Example
You all did a great job on the project. [you: pronoun]
Example
In this article, we will discuss the benefits of exercise for you. [you: pronoun]
thou
Example
Thou art my sunshine, my only sunshine. [thou: pronoun]
Example
Dost thou want to go to the fair with me? [thou: auxiliary verb]
Example
Farewell, thou sweet and fair one. [thou: adjective]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
You is much more common than thou in everyday language and is the standard pronoun used in modern English.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between you and thou?
You is more versatile and can be used in both formal and informal contexts, while thou is generally considered informal or poetic and is not appropriate for formal situations.
