Addressing People in English

How to address people in English!

How to address someone when you are talking or writing to them?

Addressing people in English can be trick sometimes. Use the following rules to address to them when you are talking or writing.

The titles

• Sir (adult male of any age).
• Ma’am (adult female – North American).
• Madam (adult female).
• Mr + last name (any man) | pronounced: “Mister”.
• Mrs + last name (married woman who uses her husband’s last name) | pronounced: “Misses”.
• Ms + last name (married or unmarried woman; common in business) | pronounced “Mizz”.
• Miss + last name (unmarried woman) | pronounced “Miss”.
• Professor + last name (in a university setting) | Teacher is a broader term used as an educator.
• Dr + last name (you can use Dr + first name or Dr + last name) | “Doctor”.

If you are not sure

If you are not sure of what to call someone, it’s best to use a formal address or simply ask them how they prefer to be called. You may ask them by using the following questions:

• What is your name, please?
• What is your title?
• Can I call you by your first name?
• Should I call you by your last name or first name?
• How should I call you?
• What should I call you?
• Is it okay if I call you by your first name?
• Do you mind if I call you [first name]?
• Is it okay if I call you [nickname]?

When you are addressing people in English, make sure you use these rules, this will help you improve your oral and written skills.

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