How can I talk to someone in a polite way?
If you are going to talk to someone who's older than you, you need to use polite words, but... Is it correct to refer to other person as "Mister", "Lady", "Mrs"? In México it can be rude to call a women as "Mrs" (it could be interpreted as an offense) So, What words would be appropiate to use and in which cases? What words would you choose to greet or introduce yourself if it is an important person (like an employee of the Embassy, or people in a government dependence)?

Question

How can I talk to someone in a polite way?
If you are going to talk to someone who's older than you, you need to use polite words, but... Is it correct to refer to other person as  "Mister", "Lady", "Mrs"? In México it can be rude to call a women as "Mrs" (it could be interpreted as an offense) So, What words would be appropiate to use and in which cases? What words would  you choose to greet or introduce yourself if it is an important person (like an employee of the Embassy, or people in a government dependence)?

Answer

In general everyday life, if there is a person who is older than you, you don't have to address them in any other way but their name in English. Whatever they introduce their name as,  you call them by that. If it is someone of high authority you are working with (as a job), you may or may not need to call them Mr./Ms. X. Again, it's a case by case situation. However, It never hurts to ask them "How may I address you?" The safest route you can take.

Good luck!

Answer

If an elder or someone who you want to show respect to asks you a yes or no question, you should respond "yes sir" or "yes ma'am". Also remember to say please and thank you. To introduce yourself to an elder just say"Hello sir/ma'am, how are you? My name is (your name)."

Answer

I'd like to add that when you are wanting to appear respectful and polite, you should avoid slang and idioms that may have what one might call lazy grammar.

Answer

For a man: Sir
For a woman: Madam

Answers · 4

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