Can I call my lecturer by their first name?
Neutral Neutral
What it really means
At most UK universities, yes — many lecturers introduce themselves by first name and sign emails that way. This shows the culture is informal; it does NOT mean less respect is expected. If unsure, start with "Dr Smith" or "Professor Smith" and switch when they invite you to ("Please, call me Sarah"). How they sign their emails is a good clue.
Chinese explanation
在大多数英国大学，可以——很多讲师自我介绍时用名字，邮件落款也只写名字。这说明文化氛围不拘礼节，但并不意味着可以少一分尊重。拿不准时，先称"Dr Smith"或"Professor Smith"，等对方主动说"叫我Sarah就好"再改口。对方邮件的署名方式是很好的线索。
Example conversation
A: Can I call my lecturer by her first name? She signs her emails just "Rachel".
B: That's your invitation — go with Rachel. If in doubt, start formal and let them correct you.
A：我能直接叫讲师的名字吗？她邮件落款只写"Rachel"。
B：那就是许可了——叫Rachel没问题。拿不准时先用正式称呼，让对方来纠正你。
What you could say back
No spoken reply needed for this one.
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· Last checked 24 July 2026 · Report a mistake