Why is it difficult to know when to use personal pronouns in Vietnamese?

💡Explanation:

Unlike English, Vietnamese doesn’t use fixed pronouns like I, you, or he/she. Instead, it uses kinship-based pronouns that reflect age, gender, and social relationships. This system expresses respect and hierarchy.

Examples of common pronouns:

• Tôi = I (neutral/formal)

• Em = I/You (younger person)

• Anh = I/You (older male)

• Chị = I/You (older female)

Your choice depends on your relationship with the listener, not just the grammar.

📌 Examples:

• Anh yêu em. → I love you. (Man to younger woman)

• Em cảm ơn anh. → Thank you. (Younger person to older man)

• Tôi là giáo viên. → I am a teacher. (Neutral/formal)

🧠 Tips for Use:

• 👂 Listen to how native speakers refer to each other.

• ✅ Use "tôi" (I) and "bạn" (you) as neutral options in most casual cases.

• ❓ Don't hesitate to ask: “Em nên gọi anh/chị là gì?” → What should I call you?