Placement of English Names: Before or After?

Introduction

When writing in English, it is common to use personal names as a way of addressing someone. However, when communicating with someone whose first language is not English, the placement of the English name in relation to the recipient's name may cause confusion. In this article, we will examine whether it is better to use English names before or after the recipient's name.

Placing English Names Before The Recipient's Name

One argument for placing English names before the recipient's name is that it is the Western convention. In countries where English is the primary language, it is common for people to introduce themselves using their first name followed by their last name. For example, \"Hello, I'm John Smith.\" This convention is also common in countries where English is widely spoken as a second language, such as India and Nigeria.

Some people believe that by placing the English name before the recipient's name, they demonstrate their knowledge and understanding of Western conventions. This may be important in certain contexts, such as when doing business with Western companies or meeting Westerners in a social setting.

Placing English Names After The Recipient's Name

On the other hand, some argue that placing English names after the recipient's name is more appropriate. This is because in many non-Western cultures, it is customary to use titles and honorifics when addressing someone. For instance, in Korean culture, it is common to use a person's family name followed by their title, such as \"Kim director\" or \"Park professor.\"

By following this convention, it shows respect for the recipient's culture and traditions. It may also help to avoid confusion, as the English name may be unfamiliar to the recipient and they may not know how to respond.

Conclusion

Ultimately, the decision to place English names before or after the recipient's name will depend on the situation and the cultural context. In some situations, it may be appropriate to use Western conventions and place the English name before the recipient's name, while in others it may be more appropriate to follow the recipient's cultural practices and place the English name after their name.

Regardless of which convention is chosen, it is important to be respectful and sensitive to the recipient's cultural background. Taking the time to understand and acknowledge these differences can help to build stronger relationships and partnerships across cultures.