Guvnor Meaning in English

word

US

ˈɡʌv.nɚ

GUHV-ner

UK

ɡˈʌvnɐ

GUHV-nuh

Definition

A British informal word meaning 'boss', 'manager', or 'man in charge', sometimes used to address a man as a sign of respect or friendliness.

Usage & Nuances

Very informal and most common in British English, especially working-class speech or old-fashioned slang. Not usually used in formal situations. Can be both affectionate or slightly cheeky. Sometimes spelled 'gov'nor' or 'guv'nor'.

• Spanish: jefe (coloquial) - patrón (coloquial)
• Portuguese (BR): chefe (informal) - patrão (informal)
• Portuguese (PT): chefe (informal) - patrão (gíria)
• Chinese (Simplified): 老板 (口语) - 头儿 (非正式)
• Chinese (Traditional): 老闆 (口語) - 頭兒 (非正式)
• Hindi: बॉस (अनौपचारिक) - मालिक (स्लैंग)
• Arabic: الرئيس (عامية) - المعلم (عامية)
• Bengali: বস - মালিক - সাহেব
• Russian: босс - начальник
• Japanese: ボス - 親分
• Vietnamese: sếp - ông chủ
• Korean: 보스 - 사장
• Turkish: patron - şef
• Urdu: باس - مالک - صاحب
• Indonesian: bos - juragan

Example Sentences

The guvnor is coming to the shop today.

basic

You'd better ask the guvnor before you change anything.

basic

The guvnor wants everyone to be on time.

basic

Alright, guvnor, what can I do for you today?

natural

Everyone calls him the guvnor because he's always in charge.

natural

Cheers, guvnor! You saved my day.

natural