What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
trousseau
Example
The bride-to-be spent months assembling her trousseau, carefully selecting each item. [trousseau: noun]
Example
In France, it is customary for a bride to have a trousseau that includes everything she needs for her married life. [trousseau: noun]
dowry
Example
In some cultures, a dowry is expected to be given by the bride's family to the groom's family. [dowry: noun]
Example
The wealthy merchant offered a large dowry to the man who would marry his daughter. [dowry: noun]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Trousseau is less commonly used than dowry in everyday language. Trousseau is a term that is more specific to French culture, while dowry is a more widely recognized term that is used in various cultures around the world.
Whatโs the difference in the tone of formality between trousseau and dowry?
Both trousseau and dowry are formal terms that are typically used in specific contexts, such as discussions of marriage traditions or cultural practices. However, dowry may be associated with more negative connotations due to its history of being linked to gender inequality and violence against women.