The correct usage of Don or Doña

Question

In conversation I have heard Don applied with a first name only, also with a last name. Does anybody know which is the proper usage of Don and Doña?

Thanks

Answer 1

I've also heard that Señor/Señora are used with surnames, whereas Don/Doña with first names.

I do believe that is the correct way~....If my studies aren't mistaken XD - fatcinnaroll, Sep 28, 2009

Answer 2

In Mexico don or doña is used with the first name, not with the last name

it is a title of respect afforded to older people and employers

Gracias! - 002262dd, Sep 27, 2009

Answer 3

We would probably say "Sir" or "Madam" in English but it works better in Spanish because "Sir John" sounds fine but "Madam Joan" does not for some reason. Although "Lady Joan" would be fine.

Answer 4

It's a bit stuffy, but when writing letters if you know both the first and surname, I have seen them addressed as:

el Señor Don Luis Gonzales

la Señora Doña María Gonzales

However, to shorten them they use abbreviations for Sr. Sra. and Doña (I'm too lazy to look up the superscript r and a's)