Language immersion effects in the use of <i>tú</i> and <i>usted</i> by L1-French and L1-European Portuguese learners of Spanish

Abstract The use of the Spanish pronouns address tú and usted is an intricate matter for L2 learners due to many factors that influence their selection at discourse interactional level. Although literature has traditionally focused on challenges experienced by L1-English L2-Spanish in learning these forms, less known about speakers whose L1s also present similar (but not identical) address. This study thus analyzes L1-French L1-European Portuguese who learn either home countries (i.e., France Portugal) or Spain as part a study-abroad experience. Results indicate both L1 groups used more often while than country. Additionally, students immersion started adopting criteria those L1-Spanish determining whether would be appropriate certain contexts.