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I will have a visa interview (for the US) in a few days and I would like to know how I address people in a conversation.
Especially, I would like to know the differences between the following:
I have read the following questions/answers, but they don't explain the terms in context. I would like to know what the differences are:
Sir is a general-purpose term of respect, and it's hard to go wrong with sir when used in polite conversation. The equivalent term to use for women would be ma'am.
My name is Joe Blanton.
Good morning, sir. Pleased to meet you.My name is Lisa Blanton.
Good morning, ma'am. Pleased to meet you.
Unlike sir and ma'am, Mr., Mrs., Miss, (and Ms.) wouldn't be polite words to use unless you use them in conjunction with the person's name:
My name is Joe Blanton.
Hello, Mr. Blanton. Pleased to meet you.
Mrs is used for married women, Miss is used for single women, and Ms can be used for either. I would recommend using Ms unless the person you are talking with indicates otherwise:
My name is Lisa Blanton.
Hello, Ms. Blanton. Pleased to meet you.My name is Miss Blanton.
Hello, Miss Blanton. Pleased to meet you.
The facts in J.R.'s post are correct, but to address your questions of appropriate usage of these, there are some nuances that should be noted.
When you encounter a person for the first time be prepared to use "Mr. (lastname)" or "Ms. (lastname)" (for example Mr. Smith or Ms. Smith). You should definitely avoid the term "Ma'am" or "Madam" as some women will feel that they are "too young to be 'ma'am'." It doesn't necessarily make much sense outside of cultural context but I have encountered it on many occasions. So likely better to be safe than sorry.
Also, follow the direction that the person gives you when they introduce themselves. If, when you shake hands, they provide only their first name ("Hello, I'm John"), then they are looking to be called "John" and you should comply. Otherwise if they call themselves "John Smith" during this introduction, then you should continue with "Mr. Smith" unless otherwise instructed ("Please, call me John").
