How do I address formumites with courtesy?

[thedaffodils]

Hi,

I wonder how I address forumites here with courtesy? Is it okay for me to address their user names directly? Some user names show their genders, such as Bobabc, Marydef, so I can address them Mr. Bobabc or Ms. Marydef. But some of them indicate this nothing. (I wouldn't like to be a detective to ask people this here)

Any suggestions? Thanks!

[Soup]

Hi thedaffodils

It's pretty much like using a telephone. Address members directly. When online, use the person's online name (e.g., Hi Soup). Titles (Mr, Mrs, Miss, Ms) are added to family names only (e.g., Bob Smith => Mr Smith).

[thedaffodils]

Hi Soup,

Your answer is helpful. I got it. Thank you!

[Soup]

Hi thedaffodils

Well, the Chinese I know go out of their way to treat foreigners with respect. That the expat in China considers the omission of a title as disrespectful shouldn't and doesn't reflect what the majority of non-Chinese feel or believe.

Cultural note
In North America, for example, if someone introduces themselves as, say, John Smith, it's common to ask him if he would like to be called John or Mr Smith. In this way, you know right away what name the person feels comfortable with.

[thedaffodils]

Hi Soup,

Sorry, I revised my second post after you read it. You are very kind. Well, I'll remember to ask a foreigner how s/he would like to be addressed in the future for such a case.

Thank you very much!