When to use Sie, du and ihr

In English, there is only one word to say “you” while in German there are three different words. But don’t worry – the rule for when to use each of these three words is quite straight forward and easy to understand Let’s look at them more closely:

The three words we are talking about are du, Sie and ihr.

• The word du is used when you talk to one person who you know very well. For example: Your family and your friends. The word du is also used for kids.

  Kannst du mir bitte das Buch geben? – Can you please give me that book?

• The word Sie is used when you talk to one person who you don’t know so well or hold authority over you. For example: Your boss and strangers.

Kommen Sie morgen zur Arbeit? – Are you coming to work tomorrow?

• The word ihr is used when you talk to more than one person who you know very well.

Wohin geht ihr heute Abend? – Where are you going tonight?

• The word Sie is also used when you talk to more then one person who you don’t know so well.

Was wollen Sie heute zum Frühstück? – What do you want for breakfast today?

Tip: If you are unsure, which word to use, choose Sie. If you use the word du in the wrong situation, some people may be offended. However do not worry too much, many Germans now prefer to use the du form even in work situations.