VocabDictionary

you

/juː/beginner Level

English Meaning & Definitions

1.pronoun

Used to refer to the person or people being addressed.

Example Sentences:
  • Can you help me carry these groceries?
  • I was looking for you earlier.
2.pronoun

One, anyone, or people in general (used in a general, impersonal sense).

Example Sentences:
  • You never know what might happen tomorrow.
  • It's a wonderful place where you can relax and unwind.
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English Synonyms & Near Equivalents

English Antonyms & Opposites

Comprehensive Thesaurus Breakdown

Compare formal, informal, literary synonyms and register nuances for “you”.

Thesaurus Entry
Cultural Origin & Etymology

Derived from Old English 'ēow', the dative and accusative case of 'ġē' (ye, the second-person plural nominative pronoun). Over time, the distinction between nominative ('ye') and objective ('you') faded, and 'you' eventually replaced 'ye' entirely, as well as becoming the singular pronoun, displacing the familiar 'thou'.

Memory Aid & Mnemonic

Think of 'you' as representing **Y**our **O**wn **U**nique self.

Common Collocations & Phrases
Rhyming Words

Frequently Asked Questions About “you

1. What is the meaning of “you” in English?

In English, you (pronoun) is defined as: “Used to refer to the person or people being addressed.”.

2. How do you use “you” in a sentence?

Can you help me carry these groceries?

3. What are English synonyms of “you”?

Common synonyms include:y'all,thou,one,yous

4. What is the etymology and word origin of “you”?

Derived from Old English 'ēow', the dative and accusative case of 'ġē' (ye, the second-person plural nominative pronoun). Over time, the distinction between nominative ('ye') and objective ('you') faded, and 'you' eventually replaced 'ye' entirely, as well as becoming the singular pronoun, displacing the familiar 'thou'.