uds
oos-TEH-des
/usˈteðes/
📝 In Action
Uds. deben traer su pasaporte mañana.
A1You all must bring your passports tomorrow.
¿A qué hora llegan Uds. al aeropuerto?
A2What time are you (plural) arriving at the airport?
Si Uds. lo deciden, podemos empezar ahora.
B1If you decide, we can start now.
💡 Grammar Points
Pronunciation of Abbreviations
Even though it is written 'Uds.', you must pronounce the full word: 'ustedes.' This abbreviation is only used in writing.
Verb Agreement
The pronoun 'Uds.' always uses the third-person plural form of the verb (the same form used for 'ellos' or 'ellas'). For example: 'Uds. comen' (You eat), 'Ellos comen' (They eat).
❌ Common Pitfalls
Confusing Formal and Informal Plural
Mistake: “Using 'vosotros' in Latin America.”
Correction: In almost all of Latin America, 'Uds.' (ustedes) is the standard plural 'you' for both formal and informal situations. 'Vosotros' is only common in Spain.
⭐ Usage Tips
When to Use the Abbreviation
Use 'Uds.' when writing quickly, taking notes, or filling out forms where space is limited. Always use the full word 'ustedes' in formal speeches or essays.
✏️ Quick Practice
Quick Quiz: uds
Question 1 of 2
If you are in Mexico and talking to a group of friends, which is the correct pronoun to use?
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Frequently Asked Questions
Is 'Uds.' the same as 'ustedes'?
Yes, 'Uds.' is simply the written abbreviation for the plural pronoun 'ustedes.' They mean the exact same thing: 'you (plural).'
Why does 'Uds.' use the same verb form as 'ellos' and 'ellas'?
Because 'ustedes' historically started as a third-person phrase ('your graces'). Even though it means 'you,' it kept the third-person verb endings, which is why it agrees with 'they' (ellos/ellas).