Vous is both the formal singular and the plural "you" pronoun. With reflexive verbs, add vous before the verb (vous vous lavez).
Usage Guidelines
Singular vous is used when formality or distance calls for it, especially with strangers, professional contacts, and authority figures. It varies by relationship, setting, and region; follow the form the other person uses.
Plural vous is used for:
- Any group of people (formal or informal)
- Mixed groups including both tu and vous individuals
- Addressing organizations or companies
- Public speaking to any audience
- Written communications to multiple recipients
Regular Conjugations
| Tense | -er | -ir (finir type) | -re |
|---|---|---|---|
| Présent | -ez | -issez | -ez |
| Imparfait | -iez | -issiez | -iez |
| Passé Composé | avez + -é | avez + -i | avez + -u |
| Futur Simple | -erez | -irez | -rez |
| Conditionnel Présent | -eriez | -iriez | -riez |
| Plus-que-parfait | aviez + -é | aviez + -i | aviez + -u |
| Futur Antérieur | aurez + -é | aurez + -i | aurez + -u |
| Conditionnel Passé | auriez + -é | auriez + -i | auriez + -u |
| Subjonctif Présent | -iez | -issiez | -iez |
| Subjonctif Passé | ayez + -é | ayez + -i | ayez + -u |
| Impératif | -ez | -issez | -ez |