How to Address Someone with a Royal Title When They Are Not Related to the Royal Family

The title of a noble can often be confusing, especially when it comes to addressing them properly. While many assume these titles indicate a direct connection to royalty, it is important to understand the distinctions between those who hold royal and noble titles.

Understanding Royal and Noble Titles

There is a distinction to be made between someone with a royal title and someone who is part of the aristocracy. Only those born into the royal family or married into it truly belong to royalty. The aristocracy, on the other hand, can include various levels of nobles such as Dukes, Earls, Barons, and more.

In the United Kingdom, the royal family comprises only four main titles: King, Queen, Prince, and Princess. There are also a few minor variations of these titles. However, unless someone can trace their lineage back to the royal family or has been granted a royal title by the monarch, their title pertains to the aristocracy rather than royalty.

Proper Addressing of Royalty and Aristocrats

The protocol for addressing someone with royal titles, if they are indeed part of the royal family, is quite specific. Your Majesty is the appropriate form of address for a King or Queen upon first meeting them, and Sir or Ma’am thereafter. For all other royals, the correct form of address is Your Royal Highness, followed by Sir or Ma’am.

For example, when addressing HRH Prince Charles, the proper form of address would be Your Royal Highness upon first meeting him, and Sir thereafter. The same protocol applies if Prince Charles also holds a noble title such as Duke of Cornwall.

The Royal Greeting: A Lesson from the British Monarchy

Within the royal family itself, there is an intricate set of protocols that must be observed. For instance, when Prince Charles greets Queen Elizabeth II, he extends an air-kiss on both cheeks, then lifts her hand for a kiss, and finally performs a quick bow from his neck. Similarly, Sophie, the Countess of Wessex, performs the same greeting but with a curtsy instead of a bow.

Handling Non-Royal Aristocrats

When dealing with someone who has a noble title but is not part of the royal family, the protocol is simpler. It is generally acceptable to address them solely by their title in public settings. Using their title at all times ensures that you are showing the appropriate level of respect and adherence to societal norms.

However, relationships can vary in intimacy. In private settings, a noble may inform you that they prefer to be addressed by their first name. It is always best to follow their lead to avoid any potential embarrassment or social faux pas.

To sum up, the key points to remember are:

True royalty refers to those born into the royal family or married into it. Royalty is addressed with Your Majesty for a King or Queen, and Your Royal Highness for other royals, followed by Sir or Ma’am. Nobility is part of the aristocracy, and addressing them by their title is appropriate in public, but they may prefer your first name in private.

By following these guidelines, you can ensure that your interaction is respectful and in line with proper etiquette.