あなた・君・お前 "You": Second-Person Pronouns in Japanese

Introduction

Now that we've tackled first and third-person pronouns, it's time to take a step back and look at second-person pronouns. Because that's the standard way to do things right? Step one then three then two? Ha, ha...

In all seriousness, Japanese second-person pronouns are best covered last, because they require the most examination. This is because their use is often unnecessary and, depending on the situation, dubious. This is so often the case that many resources will simply tell you not to use them at all. But this should prompt you to ask, "Why do they exist then?" which is a very astute and important question, my young padawan. I mean, pandawan.

You and you alone...

can determine the proper time to use a second-person pronoun. That's right, it's all up to you. The power is in your hands. Okay, I may be partially just trying to fit in as many English second-person pronouns as I can, but this is also somewhat true. Oftentimes, the usage of second-person pronouns in Japanese comes down to the speaker's discretion, as well as the surrounding context. For example, we'll be taking a closer look at 「あなた」 which can be either rude, neutral, or endearing depending on the relationship between the one using it and who they're referring to, and in what situation.