The T/V Pronoun Address

The “t/v pronoun distinction” is a factor in pragmatics that refers to the use of a binary address system where an addressee is given either a familiar(T) or formal(V) pronoun form.

When Sub-Comandante Marcos uses the familiar “Tu” (T) rather than “Usted”(V) with the Latin American audience, he is perceived as forming an expression of solidarity. In a North American English speaking audience, this distinction generally isn’t used (excepting for certain slang usages like y’all). This difference can be seen as a hindrance for communicators who often rely on the t/v address to help create a sense of familiarity or camaraderie with their audience.