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: subject pronoun]
Example
I'm talking to you. [you: object pronoun]
Example
Nice to meet you! [you: direct address]
ye
Example
Ye shall not pass! [ye: subject pronoun]
Example
I saw ye at the market yesterday. [ye: object pronoun]
Example
Hear ye, hear ye! [ye: direct address]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
You is much more commonly used than ye in everyday language. You is versatile and covers a wide range of contexts, while ye is less common and may only be used in certain regions or cultures or in literary or historical contexts.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between you and ye?
While you is versatile and can be used in both formal and informal contexts, ye is often associated with a more archaic or old-fashioned tone and may not be appropriate for formal settings.
