Use of names and titles

First (or given) names are used in the U.S. more frequently than elsewhere. People may call each other by their first names immediately after they have met if they are about the same age and status. The U.S. Americans' ready use of first names may make it seem to you that they are oblivious to differences in age and social status. They are not; as you will soon notice, there are subtle differences in vocabulary and mannerisms, depending on the relationship between the people involved. For example, a U.S. American may be less likely to use "slang" when speaking with a person who is older, whose social standing is higher, or whom she or he does not know well.

If you meet a person who has a title like "Doctor," "Ambassador," "President," or "Dean," it is correct to use that title and the person's last name (family name) when addressing him or her. Any faculty member can be addressed as "Professor," regardless of their official university rank. If people invite you to address them by their first names, you should do so.

The use of nicknames is fairly common in the United States. A nickname is not the person's given birth name, but a name that refers to some physical characteristic, a personality trait, or is a shortened version of one's given name. Being called by a nickname is not usually uncomplimentary; rather, it may indicate that you are viewed by respect and even affection. If you prefer not to be addressed by a nickname, do not hesitate to convey this to the person addressing you.

If you do not know how to address a person, ask "What shall I call you?" If a U.S. American appears uncertain about how to address you, you can say "You can call me _______ ."