Learn English – Can “sir” be used together with titles

forms-of-address

In Italian, signore or signor (equivalent to Mr. or sir, depending on the context) can be used together with other titles, for example with dottore ("doctor"), or military ranks (e.g. capitano, "captain").

In particular with the military ranks, there is a difference between Signor Capitano and Capitano. When speaking with other soldiers, Signor Capitano would mean:

  • My rank is lower than Captain
  • I am speaking with somebody whose rank is higher than mine

Can sir be used with other titles?
What is the equivalent of Signor Capitano, said by someone who has a rank lower than Captain?

To be clear, I am not using sir as title, but as word to respectfully address a man (which is the usage signore has in Italian).

Best Answer

Sir as a respectful term of address is employed without the name, or after the name:

Sir, yes, sir!
Colonel Blimp, sir, Company A is ready to proceed.
Professor Knights, sir, may I ask a question?
Professor Knights, may I ask a question, sir?

Sir in this sense does not necessarily imply subordination; in formal situations it may be used to one's peers to signify either respect or distance.

You are exactly right, sir; well said!
You, sir, are a liar and a blackguard.

Sir before a name or name-and-title, is always the title proper to a knight, unless the appellation is set off in apposition:

Sir, Professor Knights, might I ask a question?

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