> I was never quite sure when to "tu" and when to "usted" - its probably one of those things that makes a foreigner look quite rude in Spain.

It�s so hard for me using the same �you� with a friend or with a stranger!.
We use �tu� with friends, family or young people, and when we want to slight a stranger. We even have the word �tutear� that is using �tu� with somebody. And we can say with dignity: �How do you (usted) dare �tutearme�?�.
One sad experience that almost every Spaniard have to undergo in his life is when for first time a stranger young person address you using �usted�. You think �How a boy like me is using �usted� when talking to me?. Or, maybe, I�m no longer a boy?�.


Juan Maria.