moulin rouge: meaning, definition, pronunciation and examples
LowFormal/Cultural
Quick answer
What does “moulin rouge” mean?
A famous cabaret and nightclub in Paris, France, known for its red windmill and can-can dancers.
Audio
Pronunciation
Definition
Meaning and Definition
A famous cabaret and nightclub in Paris, France, known for its red windmill and can-can dancers.
A cultural symbol of bohemian Paris, artistic freedom, and Belle Époque entertainment; often used to refer to the style, aesthetic, or atmosphere associated with the original venue.
Dialectal Variation
British vs American Usage
Differences
No significant differences in meaning or usage. Both varieties treat it as a proper noun referring to the Paris cabaret.
Connotations
Connotes Parisian nightlife, historical entertainment, and artistic culture equally in both varieties.
Frequency
Equally low frequency in both, primarily appearing in cultural, historical, or travel contexts.
Grammar
How to Use “moulin rouge” in a Sentence
[Proper Noun] (functions as a subject/object)the + Moulin RougeMoulin Rouge + of + ParisVocabulary
Collocations
Examples
Examples of “moulin rouge” in a Sentence
adjective
British English
- The party had a Moulin Rouge theme with can-can dancers.
American English
- She wore a Moulin Rouge-inspired costume for the show.
Usage
Meaning in Context
Business
In tourism or entertainment industry contexts discussing venues or attractions.
Academic
In historical, cultural, or performance studies discussing French Belle Époque culture.
Everyday
In conversations about travel to Paris, films, or musical theatre.
Technical
Not typically used in technical contexts.
Vocabulary
Synonyms of “moulin rouge”
Vocabulary
Antonyms of “moulin rouge”
Watch out
Common Mistakes When Using “moulin rouge”
- Using lowercase ('moulin rouge').
- Omitting the definite article 'the' when referring to the specific venue.
- Using it as a common noun for any cabaret.
FAQ
Frequently Asked Questions
Yes, as it is a proper noun referring to a specific place.
Primarily no, but it can be used attributively (e.g., 'Moulin Rouge style') to describe something reminiscent of it.
Yes, when referring to the specific venue: 'the Moulin Rouge'.
It translates literally to 'Red Windmill', which is the design of the building.
A famous cabaret and nightclub in Paris, France, known for its red windmill and can-can dancers.
Moulin rouge is usually formal/cultural in register.
Moulin rouge: in British English it is pronounced /ˌmuːlæ̃ ˈruːʒ/, and in American English it is pronounced /ˌmuːlæn ˈruːʒ/. Tap the audio buttons above to hear it.
Phrases
Idioms & Phrases
- “[No common idioms directly associated]”
Learning
Memory Aids
Mnemonic
Think of a red (rouge) windmill (moulin) on a Parisian stage.
Conceptual Metaphor
A SYMBOL OF BOHEMIAN PARIS is THE MOULIN ROUGE.
Practice
Quiz
What is the Moulin Rouge primarily known as?