Difference between tú and tu in Spanish (you and your) (singular informal)

There are words in Spanish that change their meaning depending on if they do or do not have a written accent.

Let's look at "tú" vs "tu".

The Spanish "tú"

  • is a subject personal pronoun.
  • It has a written accent on the u.
  • The direct English translation is you (singular informal).

For example:

Tú eres inteligente.You are intelligent. ("You" singular informal)

The Spanish "tu"

  • Tu is written without an accent on the u.
  • It is a possessive adjective.
  • The direct English translation is your (singular informal).

For example:

Soy tu madre.I am your mum. ("Your" singular informal)

 Here are some more examples:

Tú tienes un perro negro.You have a black dog. ("You" singular informal)

María habla con tu amigo.Maria talks to your friend. ("Your" singular informal)

  • you
  • Tuyour

 See also Difference between mi and mí in Spanish (with or without an accent)

 

Want to make sure your Spanish sounds confident? We’ll map your knowledge and give you free lessons to focus on your gaps and mistakes. Start your Brainmap today »

Learn more about these related Spanish grammar topics

Examples and resources

María habla con tu amigo.Maria talks to your friend. ("Your" singular informal)
Tú tienes un perro negro.You have a black dog. ("You" singular informal)
Soy tu madre.I am your mum. ("Your" singular informal)
Tú eres inteligente.You are intelligent. ("You" singular informal)
I'll be right with you...