messieurs
- Noun (plural only): A formal or polite term of address for two or more men, equivalent to "gentlemen" in English. It is the plural form of "monsieur" (French origin) and is often used in written correspondence or formal contexts.
- (A formal salutation to a group of men.)
- (A polite request directed at several men.)
- (A formal reference to two specific men.)
In business correspondence: "Messieurs" is commonly used as a salutation in formal letters or emails addressed to a company or group of male recipients, especially in British or international contexts.
- Messieurs, we are pleased to inform you of your promotion. (A formal announcement to multiple men.)
In historical or legal documents: It appears in older texts or formal agreements to refer to male parties collectively.
- The contract was signed by the aforementioned messieurs. (The male signatories mentioned earlier.)
Monsieur (n, singular): The singular form, meaning "Mr." or "sir" in French, used to address one man.
- Monsieur, your table is ready. (A polite address to a single man.)
Mesdames (n, plural): The feminine equivalent, used to address two or more women formally.
- Mesdames, welcome to the conference. (A formal address to a group of women.)
Mademoiselle (n, singular): The feminine singular form for an unmarried woman or girl (now less common in formal use).
- Mademoiselle, may I help you? (A polite address to a young woman.)
Gentlemen: A common English equivalent for "messieurs" in formal address.
- Gentlemen, please proceed to the main hall. (A polite term for a group of men.)
Sirs: A respectful plural form of "sir," used in formal contexts.
- Sirs, your presence is requested at the ceremony. (A formal address to multiple men.)
- "Messieurs les" (French phrase): Used in French-influenced English to mean "the gentlemen who are..." followed by a description.
- Messieurs les critiques were harsh in their review. (The gentlemen critics were severe.)
- Cultural context: "Messieurs" is primarily used in formal written English, often in correspondence with French-speaking or international audiences. It is less common in everyday spoken English, where "gentlemen" is preferred.
- Abbreviation: The abbreviation "MM." (with a period) is sometimes used for "messieurs" in writing, similar to "Messrs." for "Misters."
- MM. Dupont and Lefèvre attended the summit. (An abbreviated form of "messieurs.")