Author
Tina Šoln
One particularly interesting situation arose when I was hosting a central local celebration in my hometown, sharing the stage with elementary school students from the same school I had attended “not so long ago.” Of course, quite some time had passed since I finished elementary school, and I was more than fifteen years older than most of the performers. However, stepping into such a familiar environment made it feel quite strange and unusual to be addressed formally. Especially since my general attitude towards formal addressing is that it’s an unavoidable inconvenience—I wish everyone would just use informal address. But this experience inspired the topic of today’s blog, in which I’ll explore various perspectives on formal addressing.
Formal addressing is a linguistic tool that creates a sense of distance between speakers. It is primarily used as a sign of respect, but it can also lead to a feeling of detachment. When we address someone formally, we either place them on a pedestal or take a step back ourselves. This creates a formal environment, which can be beneficial in certain situations (e.g., in the business world or when speaking to elders), but at the same time, it may hinder more relaxed and genuine communication.
Formal addressing also reflects power dynamics and hierarchy in society. It is often used in situations where professionalism needs to be conveyed or where a certain level of formality must be maintained. However, the line between respect and unnecessary distance can sometimes be very thin.
In the past, people often addressed even their parents formally—something that seems almost like science fiction today. Formal addressing was a mark of traditional authority and respect passed down through generations. Nowadays, however, its use is steadily declining, especially among younger people. In workplaces, colleagues often quickly switch to informal address, and even some politicians and business leaders prefer a less formal approach. This shift reflects modern societal trends that strive for equality and less rigid hierarchies. Using informal address no longer signifies a lack of respect but rather fosters stronger connections and more authentic relationships. Nevertheless, formal addressing still remains in certain situations, preserving its role as a symbol of professionalism and courtesy.
A company’s culture often determines whether communication is more relaxed or formal. In an international environment, where foreigners are present, the issue of formal vs. informal addressing is elegantly resolved with the universal “you” in English.
In the business world, formal addressing remains a common practice, as it ensures a certain level of formality. During an initial meeting, it is almost always advisable to use formal address unless the other person explicitly invites you to switch to informal.
A company’s culture often dictates whether communication is more relaxed or formal. In international settings, where foreigners are involved, switching to English can quickly resolve the issue of formal vs. informal addressing with the universal “you.”
However, one rule stands: when in doubt, it is better to use formal address. This demonstrates respect and professionalism. On the other hand, we should also adapt to our conversation partners— in an overly relaxed environment, formal addressing may seem rigid and unnatural.
When considering whether to address someone formally or informally, I often recall my father’s words: “A person must earn the right to be addressed informally.” It’s fascinating to see how things change over the years—if he were transported back in time by a hundred years, his contemporaries would likely find his view quite surprising.
Formal addressing remains an intriguing and multi-layered topic that adapts to new social norms over time and circumstances. How we perceive it today and how it will evolve in the future remains an open question.
However, one rule stands: when in doubt, it is better to use formal address. This demonstrates respect and professionalism. On the other hand, we should also adapt to our conversation partners— in an overly relaxed environment, formal addressing may seem rigid and unnatural.