Pronunciation

/ˈjʊ/

Definitions

Noun

• A person: Refers to the pronoun “you” used to address or refer to someone, often informally. For example: “You’re the only one who can solve this problem.”
• A sense of self: In some contexts, “you” can represent an individual’s identity or consciousness. For example: “The book explores the concept of ‘you’ as a universal experience.”

Verb

• To address: To call or refer to someone by name or with a pronoun. For example: “Please call me by my name; don’t just say ‘you.’”
• To involve: To include someone in an action or decision. For example: “We need you to help with the project.”

Pronoun

• Used to refer to oneself or others, indicating the second person. For example: “Ask yourself why you’re doing this.”
• Can be reflexive (e.g., “You should wash your hands.”) or accusative (e.g., “You forgot your keys.”)

Interjection

• Expressing politeness or acknowledgement. For example: “You’re right, I was mistaken.”
• Requesting attention or information. For example: “You there? Can you hear me?”

Phrases

• “You’re welcome” is a response to gratitude.
• “It’s all about you” implies something is centered around someone’s needs or preferences.
• “It’s your turn” indicates it’s someone’s opportunity to act or speak.

Example Sentences

• Noun: “In the self-help book, the author encourages readers to embrace their inner you.”
• Verb: “Listen carefully, I have something important to tell you.”
• Pronoun: “I asked you to clean up, but you didn’t.”
• Interjection: “You’ve really outdone yourself this time!”

Synonyms

• Thou
• You’re (contraction of “you are”)
• Yours
• Y’all (informal, mainly Southern U.S.)
• All of you (inclusive)
• Each other (referring to two people)