CEFR A1

sir

title

Meaning

A polite and formal way to address a man, especially one in a position of authority or one who is older than you.

Examples

  • Excuse me, sir, can you help me?
  • The waiter asked, 'Is everything to your satisfaction, sir?'

Synonyms: mister, gentleman

Antonyms for sir

Antonyms of sir: learn opposite words, contrast examples, and clear usage notes for English learners.

Opposite words

These words express a useful contrast. Use the notes to check which opposite fits the meaning you need.

  • madam (A1): The polite and formal way to address a woman.
  • miss (A1): A polite way to address an unmarried woman or a girl.
  • ma'am (A2): A common, slightly less formal way to address a woman, especially in the US.

See the full dictionary entry for sir