A married woman who keeps her maiden name is still often referred to as Mrs. followed by her maiden name, although other options are available.
Understanding Naming Conventions for Married Women
Historically, women adopted their husband's last name upon marriage. However, modern practices offer more flexibility.
- Mrs. + Maiden Name: According to the reference material, the prefix "Mrs.", pronounced missus, is used to describe any married woman. Thus, even if a woman retains her maiden name, she can still be addressed as Mrs. This is also the case for widows, out of respect for their deceased husbands.
- Ms. + Maiden Name: This is often preferred by women who wish to avoid revealing their marital status or who are keeping their maiden name as a matter of professional or personal preference.
- Using Only Her Name: Some women simply use their full given name and maiden name without any title.
Example Table of Naming Conventions
| Marital Status | Name Change? | Title & Name Examples |
|---|---|---|
| Married | No | Mrs. Jane Doe, Ms. Jane Doe, Jane Doe |
| Married | Yes | Mrs. Jane Smith, Ms. Jane Smith |
| Unmarried | N/A | Ms. Jane Doe, Jane Doe |
| Widowed | N/A | Mrs. Jane Smith, Ms. Jane Smith |
Important Considerations
- Professional Context: In professional settings, using "Ms." can be a neutral and respectful choice, especially if you're unsure of someone's preference.
- Personal Preference: Ultimately, the best approach is to respect the individual's choice and use the name and title they prefer.
