Pn.
The English "mrs" is translated into Malay as Pn, which is the standard title used before a woman's name.
Pn. is the standard written abbreviation used in formal correspondence and official documents to address a married woman. In spoken contexts, the full word Puan is the most common and widely used formal term to address a married woman, equivalent to "Mrs" or "Madam".
Meaning: title before a woman's name (noun)
What does it mean word for word?
The abbreviation Pn. is derived from the full word Puan, which means "Madam" or "Mrs".
Which one should you use?
While Pn. is used for married women, the term Cik is used for unmarried women (Miss).
Did you know?
- While Puan is the formal term, in casual spoken Malay, people often use Kak or Kakak, meaning 'elder sister', to show respect to a woman of a slightly older age.
- The word Puan historically shares a root with the word for 'lady' or 'mistress' of a household, reflecting traditional social hierarchies.
- In many Malay-speaking social circles, you can address a woman as Puan even if she is not married, provided she is older than you or holds a high social status.
Examples in context
- Puan AhmadMrs. Ahmad
- Pn. Siti sedang menunggu di lobi.Mrs. Siti is waiting in the lobby.
- Bolehkah saya berjumpa dengan Pn. Aminah?May I meet with Mrs. Aminah?
- Pn. Maria adalah guru saya.Mrs. Maria is my teacher.
Example conversation
Nur is asking Amir about a visitor at the office.
- NurSiapa wanita itu, Amir?Who is that woman, Amir?
- AmirItu ialah Pn. Sarah.That is Mrs. Sarah.
- NurAdakah dia pelanggan baru?Is she a new customer?
- AmirYa, dia datang untuk mesyuarat.Yes, she came for a meeting.
