Tuan Meaning in English
word
Definition
A term of respect used to address European men, especially by locals in Southeast Asian countries during colonial times. It can also mean 'sir' or 'master' in some contexts.
Usage & Nuances
'Tuan' is rarely used in modern English except in historical or Southeast Asian contexts. It can sound old-fashioned or colonial. In some countries, it remains a formal term for addressing men (similar to 'sir'). Don't use it in everyday contemporary conversation unless discussing history or local customs.
Example Sentences
The local people called the European man tuan.
basic
In the story, the children greeted the teacher as tuan.
basic
The servant waited for his tuan by the door.
basic
You’ll still hear the word tuan used in some parts of Indonesia today.
natural
He replied politely, "Yes, tuan, right away."
natural
The word tuan carries a lot of colonial history with it.
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