Mademoiselle

Mademoiselle (French pronunciation: [mad.mwa.zɛl]) is a French term of address, equivalent to "Miss" in English. It is used to respectfully address a young, unmarried woman. Traditionally, it was used more frequently, but its usage has declined in modern times, particularly since the early 2000s, with some official bodies and individuals moving away from differentiating women based on marital status. The term implies a level of formality and respect, often signaling a polite interaction. In contemporary French society, the preference for using "Madame" for all women, regardless of marital status, is increasingly common, promoting a more egalitarian approach to social interactions.

Mademoiselle meaning with examples

• At the elegant tea room, the waiter addressed each young woman, "Mademoiselle, what would you like to order?" His polite tone and respectful language set a refined atmosphere. He meticulously followed etiquette, making sure each guest felt valued and pampered. The use of "Mademoiselle" helped distinguish the unmarried young ladies from the married women in attendance, showing deference to their youth.
• In the play, the character, a young woman, was repeatedly called "Mademoiselle" by the older, male characters. This emphasized her youth and social standing in the rigid, structured society. The playwright used the term to highlight the societal norms that defined women based on marital status, representing a complex dynamic of societal expectations and female identity throughout the play's progression.
• Upon entering the boutique, the shop assistant greeted the customer with a warm, "Bonjour, Mademoiselle! How may I assist you today?" This greeting, along with a gracious demeanor, aimed to create a welcoming environment. The use of the term, coupled with the friendly approach, created a sense of luxury and personalized service, hoping to foster a sense of comfort and the desire to return.
• In a formal letter of introduction, the writer began with, "Cher mademoiselle,". This indicated the recipient was unmarried and ensured a respectful tone. The formality of the address was important in the context, as it established a professional rapport. By utilizing this traditional greeting, the writer hoped to establish trust and a professional dynamic right from the start, setting the tone for the rest of the letter.