Master vs Mister
What’s the difference between them?
Master
Meaning:
Master (noun): a title used for a male person under 18 years old; a highly-skilled person; University degree.
Examples:
1. The master of ceremonies welcomed all the guests.
2. He is a master of his craft.
3. Master John, it's time to go to school.
Mister
Meaning:
Mister is a title used before a man's name when he turns 18.
Examples:
1. 'Good morning, Mister Smith,' said the receptionist.
2. Mister Jones was a frequent customer at the restaurant.
3. Little Johnny was always so pleased when Mister Johnson came to visit.
Learn similar and opposite words to spot the difference
Synonyms
Antonyms
Master
There are no direct synonyms for this word.
There are no direct antonyms for this word.
Mister
Mr.
Sir
There are no direct antonyms for this word.
Tricks for mastery
Useful tips to understand the difference between confusing words "Master", "Mister".
1. 'Master' is traditionally used as a title for young boys under the age of 18.
2. 'Mister' is used for adult men and carries a more general and formal connotation.
3. 'Master' has an old-fashioned feel and is less commonly used in modern English, especially in informal contexts.
4. 'Mister' is widely used in contemporary English and is a common title for men in various contexts.
5. For 'Master,' visualize a young boy in historical or formal attire, reflecting the traditional and somewhat outdated use of the title for young males.
6. For 'Mister,' imagine a grown man in a suit, representing the formality and adulthood associated with the title.
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Frequently asked questions
When to use the first word 'Master'?
Master is used to address a young boy or a young man, usually below the age of 18. Usually, this word is used to address a boy if his name is not known. It is also used in a professional setting to address a skilled person or an expert. For example, a master plumber or a master electrician.
When to use the second word 'Mister'?
Mister is used to address an adult male. It is a polite and formal way of addressing a man. It can be used with a man’s surname or his first name. For example, Mister Jones or Mister John.
Do the words have the same pronunciation?
No, the words have a slightly different pronunciation. The word 'master' is pronounced with a long 'a' sound while the word 'mister' is pronounced with a short 'i' sound.
What are common mistakes associated with words 'Master' and 'Mister'?
The most common mistake when using these words is not addressing the person with the correct word. For example, using 'Mister' to address a boy or using 'Master' to address an adult man. Another common mistake is mispronouncing the words. It is important to be aware of how to correctly pronounce the word to show respect when addressing someone.
Fill in the gaps to check yourself
1. ______ Smith, could you please sign here?
2. ______ Jones, your mother is waiting for you in the lobby.
3. Good morning, ______ Taylor, how may I assist you today?
4. ______ Brown is currently in a meeting and will be available later.
5. The teacher told ______ White to wait outside the principal’s office.
6. ______ Green, your table is ready.
1. Answer: Mister
Explanation: Without specific information about age, the default formal address for men is typically Mister. Its a safe and polite form of address in most contexts.
2. Answer: Master
Explanation: The clue your mother is waiting for you in the lobby suggests a younger individual, possibly a child or teenager, making Master the appropriate title.
3. Answer: Mister
Explanation: Again, without specific information about age, Mister is the default and safe choice for addressing men in a formal or polite manner.
4. Answer: Mister
Explanation: Being in a meeting suggests a professional or adult context, making Mister the appropriate choice for addressing Mr. Brown.
5. Answer: Master
Explanation: Being sent out of the room to wait for the principal is a scenario more commonly associated with a school setting, suggesting that Master might be the appropriate title for a young boy.
6. Answer: Mister
Explanation: Without specific information about age, Mister is the default and safe choice for addressing men in a formal or polite manner, especially in a public setting like a restaurant.
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Download the PDF with a list of commonly confused words made as flashcards for comfortable learning.
List of Commonly Confused Words
Finding your way around the English language can be hard, especially since there are so many confusing words and rules. So, a list of the most confusing words in English is an extremely useful tool for improving language accuracy and sharing the ideas clearly.