signora
/siɲˈɲo.ra/
The English phrase "Ms." is translated into Italian as signora.
signora is a common formal equivalent of Ms. that covers both married and unmarried women. It is used as a title before a woman's surname.
Which one should you use?
While signora is the equivalent of "Ms." or "Mrs.", the term signorina is the equivalent of "Miss" and is used for unmarried women or young women.
How do you pronounce it?
The word has 3 syllables, with the stress on the 2nd syllable. The IPA is /siɲˈɲo.ra/.
What mistakes should you avoid?
English speakers often try to find a direct equivalent for the English "Ms." to avoid marital status, but in Italian, signora has become the default respectful title for any adult woman.
Did you know?
- While signorina is technically for unmarried women, using it for an adult woman in a professional setting can sometimes be perceived as patronizing or diminishing her status.
- The word signora is a direct descendant of the Medieval Latin word seniōra, which was the feminine form of the word for 'lord'.
- The masculine counterpart, signore, is not just for 'Mr.' but is frequently used as a formal way to address an entire crowd, similar to 'Ladies and gentlemen'.
Examples in context
- Buongiorno, Signora Rossi. È un piacere conoscerla.Good morning, Ms. Rossi. It's a pleasure to meet you.
- Buongiorno, signora Bianchi.Good morning, Ms. Bianchi.
- Deve parlare con la signora Rossi.You must speak with Ms. Rossi.
- La signora Moretti è molto gentile.Ms. Moretti is very kind.
Example conversation
Alessandro is introducing his colleague to Chiara.
- AlessandroChiara, ti presento la signora Moretti.Chiara, let me introduce you to Ms. Moretti.
- ChiaraPiacere di conoscerla, signora Moretti.It's a pleasure to meet you, Ms. Moretti.
- AlessandroLei è la nostra nuova consulente.She is our new consultant.
- ChiaraBenvenuta nel nostro ufficio.Welcome to our office.
Sources
- Pronunciation: Wiktionary entry signora, CC BY-SA 4.0, dump of 2026-09-26.
- Word origins: Wiktionary entries signora, CC BY-SA 4.0.
