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Royalty
How to address a The Sovereign
Spoken Address
Your Majesty (initially), thereafter Ma'am or Sir
Written Address
Your Majesty
Envelope Address
Her Majesty The Queen or His Majesty The King
Formal Introduction
Your Majesty, may I present...
Spouse
His Royal Highness The Prince Consort or Her Majesty The Queen
Children
His/Her Royal Highness
Notes
The Sovereign is always addressed in the third person initially. For a King, 'Sir' should rhyme with 'stir'. For a Queen, 'Ma'am' should rhyme with 'ham'.
Examples
- Your Majesty, it is a great honour to welcome you here today.
- I hope Your Majesty enjoyed the performance this evening.
- May I ask if Your Majesty would like to see the gardens now, Sir?
Common Mistakes
- Using 'Mr. King' or 'Mrs. Queen'
- Failing to bow or curtsy correctly
- Touching the Sovereign without permission