mevrou: meaning, definition, pronunciation and examples
N/A (Not an English word)Formal, respectful (within Dutch contexts).
Quick answer
What does “mevrou” mean?
A Dutch term of respectful address for a married or adult woman, equivalent to 'Mrs.
Audio
Pronunciation
Definition
Meaning and Definition
A Dutch term of respectful address for a married or adult woman, equivalent to 'Mrs.' or 'madam'.
The standard polite title used before the surname of a woman in Dutch-speaking contexts. It can also be used as a standalone form of address to show respect to an adult woman whose name is not known, similar to the usage of 'madam' in English. In Suriname, it can also be used as a respectful term for a female teacher.
Dialectal Variation
British vs American Usage
Differences
No meaningful difference in usage between UK and US English, as the word is not part of the standard lexicon in either variety. Its appearance would be equally rare and context-specific in both.
Connotations
If encountered, it carries connotations of Dutch culture, history, or formality. It may signal a specific setting or a direct translation from Dutch.
Frequency
Extremely low to non-existent in general English corpora. Frequency is context-dependent (e.g., higher in texts about Dutch history or in translations of Dutch literature).
Grammar
How to Use “mevrou” in a Sentence
[Mevrouw] + [Surname]Address: '[Mevrouw]'Verb of address + 'mevrouw' (e.g., 'Excuseer, mevrouw.')Vocabulary
Collocations
Usage
Meaning in Context
Business
Used in formal correspondence and address in Dutch-speaking business environments (e.g., 'Geachte Mevrouw Jansen').
Academic
Might appear in historical, linguistic, or cultural studies focusing on the Low Countries.
Everyday
Standard polite address in everyday Dutch interactions in the Netherlands, Belgium, and Suriname.
Technical
Not used in technical English contexts.
Watch out
Common Mistakes When Using “mevrou”
- Using it in general English communication where 'Mrs.' or 'Ms.' is expected.
- Misspelling as 'mevrow' (archaic spelling) or 'mevrouw' (correct Dutch spelling often retained in English contexts).
- Incorrect capitalisation when not starting a sentence or used as a title directly before a name.
- Assuming it is an English word and expecting it to be widely understood.
FAQ
Frequently Asked Questions
No, 'mevrou' (or more correctly 'mevrouw') is a Dutch word. It appears in English texts only as a loanword in specific cultural, historical, or translated contexts.
'Mevrouw' is the standard title for an adult woman, typically implying she is married or of a certain age. 'Juffrouw' (or 'juf') was traditionally used for an unmarried woman or a (primary school) teacher, but its use as a general title has declined in favour of 'mevrouw'.
The closest English approximation is /məˈvraʊ/ (muh-VROW). The Dutch pronunciation is closer to [məˈvrɑu̯].
Not unless you are code-switching into Dutch. In English, use the standard English titles 'Mrs.', 'Ms.', or 'Madam' as appropriate. Using 'mevrouw' in an English sentence would be unusual unless you are directly quoting Dutch speech.
A Dutch term of respectful address for a married or adult woman, equivalent to 'Mrs.
Mevrou is usually formal, respectful (within dutch contexts). in register.
Phrases
Idioms & Phrases
- “Zo zeker als wat, mevrouw. (As sure as anything, madam.)”
Learning
Memory Aids
Mnemonic
Think of 'Me' addressing 'Vrouw' (the Dutch word for 'woman/wife') with respect.
Conceptual Metaphor
TITLE IS A CONTAINER FOR RESPECT.
Practice
Quiz
In which context is the word 'mevrouw' most appropriately used in an English-language text?