messrs

The letter was addressed to Messrs. Smith and Jones.

Definition

1. Noun (plural):
   • A title used before a list of names of men: "Messrs" is the plural form of "Mr." and is used to address or refer to two or more men, typically in formal or business contexts.

Usage Examples

• (A formal address to two men, Mr. Smith and Mr. Jones.)
• (A formal reference to a company or firm owned by men named Brown.)

Advanced Usage

• "Messrs" in legal documents: It is often used in legal correspondence or contracts to refer to multiple male parties.

  • The agreement was signed by Messrs Johnson, Lee, and Patel. (The document was signed by the three men named.)

• "Messrs" in business correspondence: It appears in formal letters or invoices when addressing a group of male business partners or a firm.

  • Please send the invoice to Messrs Williams and Sons. (Direct the invoice to the company named Williams and Sons.)

Variants and Related Words

• Mr. (singular): the title for an adult man.
  • Mr. Adams will be joining us for dinner. (A single man named Adams.)
• Mmes (plural of Mrs.): the equivalent title for married women.
  • The invitation was sent to Mmes Davis and Clark. (Two married women, Mrs. Davis and Mrs. Clark.)

Synonyms

• Gentlemen: a polite term for a group of men.
  • Dear Gentlemen, we are pleased to inform you... (Formal address to male recipients.)
• Sirs: a formal plural address for men.
  • Sirs, your order has been shipped. (Polite reference to multiple men.)

Related Idioms

• No related idioms: "Messrs" is a formal title and appears only in fixed expressions like "Messrs [Name] & Co." or "Messrs [Name] and [Name]."

Phrasal Verbs

• No phrasal verbs: "Messrs" is a noun and does not combine with verbs to form phrasal verbs.