Dave's ESL Cafe's Student Discussion Forums

[Wojtek1]

When do we use in English sir, mister, etc?
I mean, can we use sir insted of mister or vice versa.

Best wishes Wojtek1

[Lorikeet]

I only use "mister" in front of a man's last name; Mr. Jones, Mr. Smith, etc. For me, using "mister" to address someone is impolite. I would use "sir" to address someone; Excuse me, Sir, is this your newspaper? Usage would probably vary in different areas of the U.S. or in different countries.

[Wojtek1]

Thank you fo answer. And what about when to address women?

[KazAV]

It would be correct to address a woman as madam although it sounds a little old-fashioned. I can`t think of an alternative.

[Lorikeet]

In my part of the U.S., generally we address a woman we don't know as "Miss" (for younger women) and "Ma'am" (pronounced with an /ae/ sound, not like "mom") for older women. (Yes, it was a big deal when I crossed over from the "Miss" to the "Ma'am" area .) I have heard people use "lady" but to me that is impolite, like "mister" for men. (Hey lady, you forgot to put the fare in the farebox!)

Anyway, I doubt we would use "madam" because it sounds old-fashioned and unnatural, and reminds you of the owner of a brothel as well.

[Wojtek1]

Thank you for answer.