Meaning of "mesdames" in English

"Mesdames" is a respectful and formal term used in English to address or refer to multiple women. It originates from the French language, where it functions similarly. "Mesdames" is used in written and spoken contexts to give a polite or traditional salutation, similar to saying "ladies" in English. For example, it may be employed in formal letters, greetings at events, or official announcements. It can be seen often in contexts where the speaker needs to show deference or courtesy to a group of women, particularly in formal gatherings or public speaking.

Meaning of "mesdames" in French

In French, "mesdames" is the plural form of "madame," which translates to "ladies" in English. This term is used to address or refer to women in a formal and respectful manner, often in social ceremonies, formal communications, or public announcements. "Mesdames" is commonly utilized together with "messieurs" (gentlemen) as in "Mesdames et Messieurs," highlighting its use in broader addresses to an audience. It carries a sense of reverence and politeness, reflecting the cultural emphasis on manners and respect in French-speaking societies.

Pronunciation of "mesdames" in English

Phonetic Transcription: [meɪˈdæmz]

Pronunciation Variations: In English, "mesdames" is generally pronounced as it is loaned from French. There might be slight variations depending on the speaker's familiarity with French pronunciation, but it remains fairly consistent. Some English speakers might pronounce it with a slightly altered vowel sound or stress pattern based on their regional accent.

Pronunciation of "mesdames" in French

Phonetic Transcription: [meˈdam]

Pronunciation Variations: In French, "mesdames" is pronounced with an emphasis on the smooth linkage between the "me-" and "dam," resulting in a fluid sound. Regional accents in France or other Francophone regions might cause minor variations, but the pronunciation remains largely uniform across French-speaking areas.

Sentence examples in English and translation to French

  1. Mesdames, please take your seats. (Mesdames, veuillez prendre vos places.)
  2. We are delighted to welcome you, mesdames. (Nous sommes ravis de vous accueillir, mesdames.)
  3. Mesdames and gentlemen, the event will begin shortly. (Mesdames et messieurs, l'événement commencera bientôt.)
  4. Thank you, mesdames, for your cooperation. (Merci, mesdames, pour votre coopération.)
  5. Mesdames, I am honored to address you today. (Mesdames, je suis honoré de m'adresser à vous aujourd'hui.)
  6. Mesdames, your opinions are highly valued. (Mesdames, vos avis sont hautement appréciés.)
  7. The meeting will proceed, mesdames, at the allotted time. (La réunion se déroulera, mesdames, à l'heure prévue.)
  8. Mesdames, may I present the next speaker? (Mesdames, puis-je présenter le prochain orateur?)
  9. Please follow me, mesdames, to the conference room. (Veuillez me suivre, mesdames, à la salle de conférence.)
  10. Mesdames, enjoy your evening at the gala. (Mesdames, profitez de votre soirée au gala.)

Synonyms, antonyms, and similar words for "mesdames" in English

Synonyms: ladies, women, madames, dames, gentlewomen

Antonyms: gentlemen, men

Similar Words: ma'ams, misses, madams, dames

Synonyms, antonyms, and similar words for "mesdames" in French

Synonyms: dames, femmes, madames

Antonyms: messieurs, hommes

Similar Words: mademoiselles, dames

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