Dr
The English phrase "dr." translates to the French abbreviation Dr, which is the title used before the name of a doctor.
Dr is an abbreviation for the title used before a doctor's name.
Which one should you use?
While Dr is often used for both genders, the feminine abbreviation Dre is sometimes used in certain French-speaking regions like Quebec to denote a female doctor.
Is it said differently in some regions?
The abbreviation Dre is used in certain French-speaking regions such as Quebec to denote a female doctor.
How does it change in a sentence?
In French, the abbreviation Dr does not take a period at the end.
What mistakes should you avoid?
English speakers often mistakenly add a period after Dr (writing Dr.). In French, the standard abbreviation Dr does not use a period because the last letter of the abbreviation is the same as the last letter of the full word docteur.
Did you know?
- The word docteur shares its root with the English word 'doctrine', coming from the Latin 'docere', meaning 'to teach'.
- In Quebec, the use of Dre is part of a broader linguistic movement called 'féminisation' to make professional titles explicitly female.
- In some traditional French settings, a pharmacist is also addressed as Docteur, even though their role differs from a medical physician.
Examples in context
- Je vous présente Docteur Dupont.Allow me to introduce you to Dr. Dupont.
- Salut, Docteur ! Comment ça va aujourd'hui ?Hi, Doctor! How are you doing today?
- Le Dr Martin est très gentil.Dr Martin is very kind.
- J'ai un rendez-vous avec le Dr Bernard.I have an appointment with Dr Bernard.
- Est-ce que le Dr Lefebvre est là ?Is Dr Lefebvre there?
Example conversation
Chloé is at the medical clinic reception.
- ChloéBonjour, j'ai rendez-vous avec le Dr Legrand.Hello, I have an appointment with Dr. Legrand.
- NathanBonjour Chloé, veuillez patienter un instant.Hello Chloé, please wait a moment.
- ChloéLe Dr Legrand est-il en retard ?Is Dr. Legrand running late?
- NathanNon, il peut vous recevoir maintenant.No, he can see you now.
