Esq
/is'kwaiə/
Học thuậtThân thiện
Definition
- Noun:
- A courtesy title: "Esq." is an abbreviation for "Esquire," a traditional title of respect used in written English, primarily in Britain and some Commonwealth countries. It is placed after a man's full name, especially in formal correspondence, and historically indicated a gentleman ranking just below a knight in social status.
Usage
- Esq. is used as a post-nominal title, meaning it follows a person's full name, typically in formal written contexts like addresses on envelopes or in legal documents.
- It is traditionally used for men, though modern usage is evolving. It is not typically used with any other title (like Mr. or Dr.) before the name.
- In contemporary British English, it is often used by lawyers (solicitors) as a professional style.
Examples
In a formal address:
- Please send the correspondence to John Smith, Esq.
- The letter was addressed to Arthur Conan Doyle, Esq.
In a professional/legal context:
- The document was prepared by the firm of Miller and Jones, with advice from Charles Brown, Esq.
Advanced Usage
"Esq." in Legal Profession: In the UK, it is a common professional style for practicing solicitors.
- I consulted with my solicitor, James Wilson, Esq.
Historical/Gentry Context: Refers to a social rank.
- In the 18th century, a country squire might be referred to as "Thomas Gray, Esq."
Variants and Related Words
- Esquire (n): The full, unabbreviated form of the title.
- He used the honorific "Esquire" after his name.
Synonyms
- Gentleman: A polite or formal way of referring to a man.
- (No direct equivalent title): It is a specific honorific with a unique function.
Notes on Usage
- Not a Phrasal Verb or Idiom: "Esq." is a standalone noun/title abbreviation.
- Punctuation: The period (.) in "Esq." indicates it is an abbreviation.
- Modern Usage: While still used, its frequency has declined in general correspondence outside specific professional (legal) or very formal traditional contexts.
Noun
- a title of respect for a member of the English gentry ranking just below a knight; placed after the name