Skip to main content

One of the most difficult words to translate... - Krystian Aparta

2,007,014 Views

11,958 Questions Answered

TEDEd Animation

Let’s Begin…

As simple as it seems, it’s often impossible to accurately translate the word "you" without knowing a lot more about the situation where it’s being said. Krystian Aparta describes the specific reasons why it can be difficult, citing examples from many different languages.

In some languages, the person you are talking to may find it shocking or rude if you use the wrong “you” to refer to them. Why do you think people may get upset if you use a pronoun that is too formal or too informal?

Sign in to answer question

About TED-Ed Animations

TED-Ed Animations feature the words and ideas of educators brought to life by professional animators. Are you an educator or animator interested in creating a TED-Ed Animation? Nominate yourself here »

Meet The Creators

  • Educator Krystian Aparta
  • Script Editor Alex Gendler
  • Director Avi Ofer
  • Animator Avi Ofer
  • Illustrator Avi Ofer
  • Composer Stephen LaRosa
  • Narrator Addison Anderson

More from Playing with Language