Thee: meaning, definitions and examples

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thee

 

[ ðiː ]

Pronoun / Noun
Context #1 | Pronoun

old English

archaic or dialect form of you, as the singular object of a verb or preposition.

Synonyms

you.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
thee

The pronoun 'thee' is an archaic or poetic form of 'you' used in historical or literary contexts, often associated with Shakespearean or biblical texts. It is no longer used in modern everyday language.

  • I will follow thee, my love.
  • What dost thou want of me, o thee?
you

'You' is the standard second person pronoun used in modern English, suitable for any context when addressing someone directly.

  • Do you want some coffee?
  • I appreciate the help you gave me.

Examples of usage

  • thee I'll bring to the altar
  • thee we adore, O Lord
Context #2 | Noun

poetry

poetic or archaic word for you.

Synonyms

you.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
thee

Used in archaic or poetic contexts, often seen in older texts, Shakespearean plays, or religious contexts like prayers. It is not used in modern everyday conversation.

  • I give thee this ring as a token of my love.
  • How do I love thee? Let me count the ways.
you

Used in modern, everyday conversation. 'You' is the standard second-person pronoun in English and can be used in both formal and informal contexts.

  • Can you help me with this task?
  • You are going to love this movie.

Examples of usage

  • I give thee my heart
  • farewell, and may happiness be with thee

Translations

Translations of the word "thee" in other languages:

🇵🇹 tu

🇮🇳 तुम

🇩🇪 du

🇮🇩 kamu

🇺🇦 ти

🇵🇱 ty

🇯🇵 あなた

🇫🇷 tu

🇪🇸 

🇹🇷 sen

🇰🇷 너 (neo)

🇸🇦 أنتَ (anta)

🇨🇿 ty

🇸🇰 ty

🇨🇳 你 (nǐ)

🇸🇮 ti

🇮🇸 þú

🇰🇿 сен

🇬🇪 შენ (shen)

🇦🇿 sən

🇲🇽 

Etymology

The word 'thee' originated in Middle English, deriving from the Old English word 'the'. It has been used as a second-person singular pronoun in English for many centuries, particularly in poetry and old literature. The usage of 'thee' has declined over time, with 'you' becoming the more common form of address for the second person.

See also: the, then.

Word Frequency Rank

At position #2,155, this word belongs to solid intermediate vocabulary. It's frequently used in both casual and formal contexts and is worth learning for better fluency.