How Welsh Works

Ti vs Chi

When to use each form of “you” and why the difference matters.

6 min

Guide

Welsh has two words for you, and choosing between them is more about relationship than about rules.

Ti

Singular and informal: friends, family, children, animals, and anyone who has already used ti with you.

Plural, and also singular-but-polite: strangers, older people, someone in a professional setting. If you are unsure, chi is the safe choice.

Hear both forms in a real conversation.

A friendly introduction to why Welsh words sometimes change at the beginning.

Start a conversation in Welsh. Shwmae, Bore da and Ti'n iawn? — the greetings you'll hear, and actually be able to use, all over Wales.