mw.
The English phrase 'mrs.' is translated into Dutch as mw.
The abbreviation mw. stands for mevrouw and is used to address or refer to married women in formal or professional settings. It is common to accompany mevrouw with the person's last name, such as Mevrouw De Vries.
Which one should you use?
While the English 'Mrs.' specifically denotes a married woman, the Dutch mw. (mevrouw) is the standard polite way to address any adult woman, regardless of her marital status.
How does it change in a sentence?
The abbreviation mw. is derived from the full word mevrouw, which serves as a formal title before a surname or as a standalone polite address.
Did you know?
- The word mevrouw is a compound of 'me' and 'vrouw', which literally translates to 'my woman'.
- While mevrouw is common, the older term juffrouw was historically used for unmarried women, but it is now mostly used for female primary school teachers.
- In Belgium, the use of mevrouw in formal contexts is often more strictly adhered to than in the more egalitarian social culture of the Netherlands.
Examples in context
- Goedemorgen, mevrouw Jansen. Hoe kan ik u van dienst zijn?Good morning, Mrs. Jansen. How can I assist you?
- Mevrouw De Boer zal onze nieuwe manager worden.Mrs. De Boer will become our new manager.
- Ik moet mw. Jansen nog even bellen.I still need to call Mrs. Jansen.
- Dit pakket is voor mw. Bakker.This package is for Mrs. Bakker.
Example conversation
Lucas is visiting a doctor's office.
- LucasHallo, ik heb een afspraak met mw. Smit.Hello, I have an appointment with Mrs. Smit.
- EmmaEen ogenblik geduld, Lucas.One moment, Lucas.
- LucasIs mw. Smit al in de kamer?Is Mrs. Smit already in the room?
- EmmaJa, u kunt nu naar binnen.Yes, you may go inside now.
