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Anonymous Posted 20 years ago
Letter Writing

correct addressing of a married couple

I've heard that the man's first name should be kept with his last name when address both the man and woman in a married couple. Then I've also heard other things. When should it be written Joan and John Smith and when should it be John and Joan Smith?

Thanks.
  

Top answer

Traditionally, you would use Mr and Mrs John Smith, but that is not really appropriate these days unless you need to write something for a very traditional formal situation. A lot of older people do not mind it in other situations but younger women tend to resent being called a man's name! Really it depends on the context.

— Nona the brit

  • Traditionally, you would use Mr and Mrs John Smith, but that is not really appropriate these days unless you need to write something for a very traditional formal situation.
  • A lot of older people do not mind it in other situations but younger women tend to resent being called a man's name!
  • Really it depends on the context.
  • If you are writing to friends/relations it is usual to put the name of the person you are actually related to or know best first.
  • Otherwise you normally put John and Joan Smith.
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1 Answers
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Traditionally, you would use Mr and Mrs John Smith, but that is not really appropriate these days unless you need to write something for a very traditional formal situation. A lot of older people do not mind it in other situations but younger women tend to resent being called a man's name!

Really it depends on the context. If you are writing to friends/relations it is usual to put the nam
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