How to Use Titles in the UK: Academic, Nobility, and Professional Titles

Confusion often arises regarding the correct order and format of titles in the United Kingdom, particularly when an individual holds multiple titles. Here, we'll explore the rules for ordering and using academic, nobility, and professional titles, based on real-world examples from my experiences as a UK-based SEO expert.

Order of Titles in Formal Setting

When an individual in the UK has multiple titles such as academic, professional, and nobility, the correct order and format can be puzzling. For instance, a former professor of mathematical physics who later became an Anglican priest and was knighted can hold several titles.

Despite his academic and religious titles, Reverend Canon John Polkinghorne was not styled as "Sir." Instead, he carried his religious title first: Reverend Canon John Polkinghorne. This situation might seem confusing to a first-generation Brit but is natural for those who have spent generations in the country.

Ordering Titles for Knights and Lady Knights

Knights and lady knights follow specific rules when it comes to their titles. For an individual who is both a doctor and a knight, the title Sir comes before other credentials, and not afterward. For example, Sir X (if X is a doctor) is the proper format. This rule applies to other professions as well, such as military ranks and professors. A knighted general, major, or professor is styled as "Sir X" regardless of their other professional titles.

The same rule applies to women who have been made dames: Dr Dame X, Major Dame X, etc. This format emphasizes the highest-ranking title of nobility or honor.

Combining Academic Titles and Nobility Titles

When an individual has both an academic title and a Sir or Dame title, the academic title is used first. For instance, if a person is a colonel with an academic title, the format would be Colonel Sir X Y. If the academic title occurs before the hereditary title, it is formatted as follows: Professor Sir Grenville Beynon, who is the head of physics at my university. The military format is similar: General Sir John Doe, where "Sir" precedes the rank.

Single Honor Hierarchy

When it comes to Dr and Sir, only the Sir is used. This is because Dr, Mr, Sir, or Dame are alternative forms of address, and in these cases, the most senior title is used. For instance, if a person has both a doctorate and is a Sir, the format is Sir Gareth Jenkins Ph.D. or Dr Lord xxxx. It is never correct to use both titles simultaneously: Dr. Mr Jenkins or Dr. Lady Jenkins. Instead, you would use Dr. Jenkins or Mr. Jenkins.

Armed Forces and Nobility Titles

In the case of armed forces and nobility, the rank or title comes first. For example, a member of the armed forces who is also a Lord would be styled as Dr Lord xxxx. Similarly, an army major who is a Lord would be styled as Major Lord xxxx or Major Sir xxxxx.

Conclusion

The correct way to use titles in the UK depends on the context and the hierarchy of the titles. Understanding these rules can prevent confusion and ensure that you use titles appropriately when addressing individuals in formal situations. Whether you're a first-generation Brit or someone adjusting to life in the UK, knowing the rules of title usage will make it easier to navigate the complexities of English culture.