"Usted" is a pronoun.
/usˈteð/
"Usted" is a formal second-person pronoun used in the Spanish language to address someone with respect or whom one does not know well. It is commonly used in various contexts ranging from everyday conversations to formal speeches. Its usage signifies politeness and is particularly prevalent in Latin American countries, including but not limited to Andalucía.
Usted tiene una gran responsabilidad en su trabajo.
You have a great responsibility in your job.
Si usted necesita ayuda, no dude en llamar.
If you need help, do not hesitate to call.
¿Qué opina usted sobre esta propuesta?
What do you think about this proposal?
While "usted" does not often appear as the main element of many idiomatic expressions on its own, it can be part of various phrases that reflect cultural politeness and respect. Here are some examples:
Usted sabe lo que hace.
(You know what you are doing.)
This is used to affirm someone's confidence in their abilities.
Como usted quiera.
(As you wish.)
This phrase conveys respect for the other person's choices or decisions.
Usted es el que manda.
(You are the one in charge.)
This emphasizes the authority or decision-making power of the individual addressed.
Usted tiene todo mi respeto.
(You have all my respect.)
This highlights a high regard for the person being addressed.
Usted es lo más importante aquí.
(You are the most important one here.)
This expresses the importance of the individual in a particular situation.
The word "usted" is a contraction of "vuestra merced," which means "your grace" in Old Spanish. It originated in the late medieval period as a way to address nobles or persons of higher rank respectfully. Over time, it became a general formal way of addressing anyone deserving of respect, regardless of their social standing.
Synonyms: "Usted" has few direct synonyms, but contextually, "vos" (informal singular, used in some Latin American countries) and "tú" (informal singular, used in Spain and Latin America) are forms of address depending on the level of formality.
Antonyms: "Tú" (informal singular, less respectful) could be considered an antonym as it is used in contexts that denote familiarity and casualness compared to "usted".