For Intermediate learners

We may not know what we are using but in everyday English, we use many words that help us be more polite. In this article, we will take a look at these titles.

What Are Honorifics and Titles in English?

What Are Honorifics and Titles?

Honorifics and titles are words or phrases used to show respect or honor for someone's position, status, or achievements. We usually use them before people's names or sometimes on their own.

Why Do We Use Honorific Titles?

We usually use honorific titles because we want to be polite and show respect. They are typically used in formal or polite situations, such as in business, academia, or government. Pay attention to the examples:

Mr. Steven went home soon.

Sir, please answer.

Honorific Titles

There are many honorific titles in English but the most important ones are:

  • Mr.
  • Miss
  • Ms.
  • Mrs.

Mr. is used to address a man politely. It can be followed by a person's first name or last name. Here is an example:

Mr. Salvatore is the teacher.

Miss is used to talk about a girl who is not married. For example:

Be careful Miss.

Ms. is used to refer to a woman without indicating whether she is married or not.

Ms. Twix is going to school.

Mrs. is used to talk about a woman who is married. For example:

Mrs. Johns is calling her husband.

In some contexts, some honorific royal titles are used, such as:

  • King
  • Queen
  • Prince
  • Princess

King is used to refer to a man who rules a country. For example:

King Marco is the best.

Queen is used to refer to a woman who rules a country or the king's wife. For example:

I am all ears, Queen.

Prince is used to call the son of a king and queen. Here is an example:

Prince Charles was at the castle.

Princess is used to refer to the king and queen's daughter. For example:

Princess Merida didn't want to get married.

Tip!

Remember, honorific titles start with a capital letter.

Hello Professor.

Watch out Sir.

Review

Honorific titles are used to call someone politely. Such as:

  • Mr., Miss, Mrs., Ms.
  • King, Queen, Prince, Princess

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