"Sir" and "mister" - what is the difference and why these words should not be confused

Surely you've heard how in movies people are politely addressed using the words "sir" and "mister"? And although these words have a similar meaning, their use will not always be equally appropriate. For example, you can't say, "Mister, can you tell me where Big Ben is?", but you can address a stranger with the same request using the word "sir".

Read more about how this works and in which cases it will be appropriate to say "Mr." and "sir", and in which cases it is not, read our material.

The modern word "mister" comes from the Old French "maistre", and then, in turn, from the Old English "mægester", which meant "chief" or "chief". Previously, this was how people who had an important status in society, owned property, land or slaves were treated.

Over time, feudal relations collapsed and the word "mister" lost its former color. So they began to appeal not only to the rich and "big" bosses, but also to all men everywhere.

The word "sir" comes from the Old French "sieur", which means "sir" or "sir". Once upon a time, using this word, they addressed an older, respected person or father, and, as a rule, within the same estate. However, over time, the word acquired a different color — a special respectful one replaced the standard respectful one. This is how they began to address notable people who hold a high state post or have the title of knight.

The word "sire", which came from the same "sieur", began to be applied to monarchs (analogous to the Russian "Your Majesty"). Thus, we can say that "sieur" has risen up the social ladder over the years, while "maistre", on the contrary, has lost its importance.

However, in the 20th century, the word "sir" acquired another meaning. So they began to address not only titled persons, but also just strangers, in order to show their respect.

If you want to address an unfamiliar man, it would be appropriate to use the word "sir", since you cannot say "mister" — for this you need to know the person's name. For example, it would be correct: "Sir, you dropped your handkerchief." The word "mister" is not used in this context.

Another case when you may need the word "sir" is communication with a titled person. For example, if you are a fan of Anthony Hopkins and one day you want to get his autograph, it would be appropriate to say: "Sir Anthony", since the actor holds the title of Knight Bachelor.

If you are addressing an Englishman of your acquaintance, it is correct to use the word "Mister" with a prefix to the first name (Mr. John) or last name (Mr. Adams). The word "sir" is used in combination with the name (Sir Anthony) or the full name (Sir Philip Anthony Hopkins), but to say simply "Sir Hopkins" would be wrong.