neutral
very common
Usage
Native speakers use the word 'su' to indicate possession when referring to a third person. For instance, you might hear a parent say, 'Esa es su casa' (That is his house) when talking about their son's residence. It is commonly used in both spoken and written Spanish across various contexts, such as casual conversations, business discussions, and literature.
Synonyms & nuances
'Su' is often compared to 'tuyo' (yours) or 'mío' (mine), but unlike these, 'su' does not specify ownership directly linked to the speaker. Instead, it serves as a more neutral reference to someone else's possession, making it ideal for formal communication where the identity of the owner is not critical.
Culture
'Su' is derived from the Latin 'suus', meaning 'his' or 'her', and has evolved in Spanish to serve as a possessive adjective for third-person singular. Its simplicity and versatility are notable, as it's used universally in all Spanish-speaking countries, making it an essential word for learners.
FAQ
Q.What does 'su' mean in English?
'Su' translates to 'his', 'her', 'its', or 'their' in English, depending on the context, as it denotes possession related to a third person.
Q.How do you use 'su' in a sentence?
'Su' can be used in various sentences, such as 'Su libro está en la mesa' (His book is on the table), to indicate that the book belongs to someone else.
Q.Is 'su' used for both genders in Spanish?
Yes, 'su' is gender-neutral in Spanish and can be used for both masculine and feminine nouns. For instance, 'su hermano' (his brother) and 'su hermana' (his sister) both use 'su' despite the gender difference.