"San" is a Japanese honorific title, similar to "Mr." or "Ms." in English. It is used as a polite form of address for men and women, particularly in formal settings.
Here's when to use "San":
Formal Situations
- Business meetings: Use "San" when addressing colleagues, clients, or superiors. For example, "Tanaka-san" or "Yamamoto-san."
- Formal events: Use "San" when speaking to people you don't know well or when attending formal gatherings like weddings or funerals.
- Professional correspondence: Use "San" in emails and letters addressed to individuals you are communicating with in a professional capacity.
Informal Situations
- Friends and family: You can use "San" with friends and family, but it is not always necessary. It is more common to use first names in these situations.
- Casual settings: In casual settings like a bar or restaurant, you might not use "San" at all.
Examples
- "Good morning, Tanaka-san." (Formal greeting to a colleague)
- "Please meet me at the conference room, Sato-san." (Formal request to a client)
- "Thank you for your help, Kimura-san." (Formal expression of gratitude to a superior)
Exceptions
- When addressing someone older than you: You may use "San" with older people, even if you know them well.
- When addressing someone with a higher social status: You may use "San" with someone who has a higher social status than you, even if you don't know them well.
Remember, using "San" is a sign of respect and politeness in Japanese culture.
