Arse About Fez: Random Turkish Fact #9

Thursday, 11 February 2010

Whereas Brits use surnames in formal situations (i.e. 'Mr. Holmes'), Turks use forenames (i.e. 'John Bey' meaning 'Mr. John'). Bonkers.

Deli Cevat said...: you could also say "Sayin Holmes", so it`s not a rule to use the first name.; 2/15/2010 9:45 am
Billfredo said...: You're absolutely right, thank you for that. But would it be fair to say that it's more common to use the first name?; 2/16/2010 1:03 pm
Deli Cevat said...: yes, it`s right that people usually say the first name followed by "bey". I would say "sayin" is an extra-polite word that has very limited use. you will hear that word mostly on tv programs.; 2/16/2010 5:34 pm
Claire Geben said...: Accordng to past conversations with my turkish husband surnames surnames were only introduced very recently so before this all they called each other were .... bey. And surnames had to be made up on the spot - my husbands family name is topaoglu translated as the son of the man who limps!!!!! It was an honour to call yourself this if you got your limp in a battle or such injury.; 2/27/2010 2:37 pm

Thursday, 11 February 2010