Understanding Ms., Mrs., and Miss

Let’s learn about three words we use for women: Ms., Mrs., and Miss. These words help us know a bit about a woman’s life, like if she is married or not. But remember, everyone can choose which one they like to use!

The History of Ms., Mrs., and Miss

• Ms. came around in the 1950s and became more popular in the 1970s. It does not tell if a woman is married or not. It’s a nice way to be polite when you don’t know or don’t want to say if a woman is married.
• Mrs. is older and comes from the word “mistress,” which used to mean any woman. Now it means a woman who is married.
• Miss is a way to call a young girl or a woman who is not married. It also comes from “mistress.”

How to Use Ms., Mrs., and Miss

Using Ms.

Use Ms. when you don’t know if a woman is married or when she prefers this title.

• Ms. Brown will lead the meeting today.
• Can I speak to Ms. Thompson, please?
• Ms. Green is our new teacher.
• Thank you, Ms. Liu, for your help.
• Ms. Carter works in the office next door.

Using Mrs.

Use Mrs. for a woman who is married.

• Mrs. Smith is married to Mr. Smith.
• We met Mrs. Johnson at the party.
• Mrs. Lee has two children.
• That is Mrs. Clark’s car.
• Mrs. Parker is not here today.

Using Miss

Use Miss for a young girl or a woman who is not married.

• Miss Kelly is very good at math.
• Can you help Miss Paterson with her bags?
• I see Miss White every morning.
• Miss Allen is in charge of the music club.
• Miss James just finished college.

Trick to Remember the Difference

Here’s a simple trick to remember:

• Think of Ms. as “Mysterious” because it doesn’t tell you if a woman is married or not.
• Think of Mrs. as “Married” since it is for married women.
• Think of Miss as “Single” since it is for unmarried women or girls.

Summary

To sum it up:

• Ms. is for any woman, married or not, or when you do not know.
• Mrs. is for married women.
• Miss is for young girls or unmarried women.

These words are a sign of respect. Pick the right one to use and always be polite!