How to address an elderly person in a respectful manner?
Hello,

My Colombian colleague would like to introduce me to her parents. But I am not sure how to address them in a polite way (I mean, in most Latin American culture)

Would I say, Hola Señora y Señor? or Just Hola, will do? Here in Singapore, we would address elderly people as "auntie" or "uncle" although we are not related to each other. (it is consider a polite way)

Question

How to address an elderly person in a respectful manner?
Hello,

My Colombian colleague would like to introduce me to her parents.  But I am not sure how to address them in a polite way (I mean, in most Latin American culture)

Would I say, Hola Señora y Señor? or Just Hola, will do?  Here in Singapore, we would address elderly people as "auntie" or "uncle" although we are not related to each other.  (it is consider a polite way)

Answer

Hey Siti!

So with a simple Señor or Señora will be enough. If you want to be as polite as possible, don't forget to add the "mucho gusto" or "encantada" ! They translate to "nice to meet you" and "a pleasure to meet you". In Colombia and several other latin-american countries we also have other ways to adress elders in polite ways but they are reserved for when you know the person well.

Let me know if you have any more questions about "Colombian" spanish haha

Answer

Hi Siti,
Yes, in latin-america it's common to say "hola señor/señora" to talk to somebody older than you or in a polite way. In Spain it's old fashion though. As well in Spanish in a polite conversation you use "usted" that means "tú".
I hope it will help you,
Saludos!

Answer

In general, you could address them using "señor" or "señora" and using "usted" instead of "tú". But, you have gained a bit of confidence, you could use "abuelito" or "abuelita" showing a bit more of affection without being disrespectful

Answer

Oh I see...Gracias Karen :)

Answer

if they are from Bogotá, you can also say : sumercé : Su merced