# Excellency

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Honorific style

"His Excellency" and "Her Excellency" redirect here. For other uses, see [His Excellency (disambiguation)](/source/His_Excellency_(disambiguation)).

Their Excellencies the Lords Justices of England, for the administration of the Government during the absence of the [King](/source/William_III_of_England) by [Robert White](/source/Robert_White_(engraver)).

**Excellency** is an [honorific](/source/Honorific) [style](/source/Style_(manner_of_address)) given to certain high-level officers of a [sovereign state](/source/Sovereign_state), officials of an [international organization](/source/International_organization), or members of an [aristocracy](/source/Aristocracy). Once entitled to the title "Excellency", the holder usually retains the right to that courtesy throughout their lifetime,[1] although in some cases the title is attached to a particular office and is held only during tenure of that office.[2]

Generally people addressed as *Excellency* are [heads of state](/source/Heads_of_state) (other than [monarchs](/source/Monarch)), [heads of government](/source/Heads_of_government), [governors](/source/Governor), [ambassadors](/source/Ambassador), [Roman Catholic bishops](/source/Roman_Catholic_bishops), and others holding equivalent rank, such as heads of international organizations.[3] Members of [royal families](/source/Royal_families) generally have distinct addresses such as [Majesty](/source/Majesty), [Highness](/source/Highness), etc.

While not a title of office itself, the honorific *Excellency* precedes various titles held by the holder, both in speech and in writing. In reference to such an official, it takes the form *His* or *Her Excellency*; in direct address, *Your Excellency*; in salutations, either *Your Excellency* or simply *Excellency*. The abbreviation **HE** is often used instead of *His/Her Excellency*; alternatively it may stand for *[His Eminence](/source/Eminence_(style))/[Her Eminence](/source/Eminence_(style))*.

## Government

### Heads of state and government

In most [republican](/source/Republic) [nation states](/source/Nation_state), the [head of state](/source/Head_of_state) is formally referred to as *His* or *Her Excellency*.

If a republic has a separate [head of government](/source/Head_of_government), that official is almost always addressed as *Excellency* as well. If the nation is a [monarchy](/source/Monarchy), however, the customs may vary. For example, in the case of Australia, all ambassadors, high commissioners, state governors and the governor-general and their spouses are entitled to the use of Excellency.

Governors of colonies in the [British Empire](/source/British_Empire) were entitled to be addressed as *Excellency* and this remains the position for the governors of what are now known as [British Overseas Territories](/source/British_Overseas_Territories).[4]

### International diplomacy

In various [international organizations](/source/International_organization), notably the UN and its agencies, *Excellency* is used as a generic form of address for all republican [heads of state](/source/Heads_of_state) and [heads of government](/source/Heads_of_government). It is often granted to the organization's head as well, and to those chiefs of UN diplomatic missions, such as [Resident Coordinators](/source/Resident_Coordinator) (who are the designated representatives of the secretary-general), who are accredited at the head of state level (like an ambassador), or at the lower head of government level.

### International judiciary

Judges of the [International Court of Justice](/source/International_Court_of_Justice) also enjoy the style of *Excellency*.

## Monarchy

### Royalty

In some monarchies the [husbands](/source/Husband), [wives](/source/Wife), or children of a [royal prince](/source/Royal_prince) or princess, who do not possess a princely title themselves, may be entitled to the style. For example, in [Spain](/source/Spain) spouses or children of a born *[infante](/source/Infante)* or *[infanta](/source/Infanta)* are addressed as *Excellency*, if not accorded a higher style.

Former members of a royal house or family, who have forfeited a royal title, may be awarded the style afterwards. Examples are former husbands or wives of a royal prince or princess, including [Alexandra, Countess of Frederiksborg](/source/Alexandra%2C_Countess_of_Frederiksborg), following her divorce from [Prince Joachim of Denmark](/source/Prince_Joachim_of_Denmark). Likewise, [Count Carl Johan Bernadotte of Wisborg](/source/Count_Carl_Johan_Bernadotte_of_Wisborg), who lost his succession rights to the [Swedish throne](/source/Monarch_of_Sweden) and discontinued use of his royal titles in 1946 when he married the commoner Elin Kerstin Margaretha Wijkmark, was accorded the style.

In some [emirates](/source/Emirate), such as [Kuwait](/source/Kuwait) and [Qatar](/source/Qatar), the Emir, heir apparent and prime minister are called *His Highness*. Their children are styled with *His/Her Excellency* unless they possess a higher honorific.

### Nobility

In Spain members of the high nobility, holding the dignity of [grandee](/source/Grandee), are referred to as *The Most Excellent Lord/Lady*.

In Denmark, some [counts](/source/Count) (*lensgrever*), historically those related by blood or marriage to the [Danish monarch](/source/Monarchy_of_Denmark), who have entered a [morganatic marriage](/source/Morganatic_marriage) or otherwise left the [Royal Family](/source/Danish_royal_family) have the right to be styled as *Your Excellency*, e.g., the Counts of [Danneskiold-Samsøe](/source/Danneskiold-Sams%C3%B8e), some of the [counts of Rosenborg](/source/Count_of_Rosenborg) and the [Countess of Frederiksborg](/source/Alexandra%2C_Countess_of_Frederiksborg) (*[ad personam](/source/Ad_personam)*).

In the subnational monarchy [Sultanate of Sulu](/source/Sultanate_of_Sulu), senior nobility and holders of royal offices that are granted the title of [Datu Sadja](/source/Datu_Sadja) are referred to as *His/Her Excellency*.[5]

### Knights

*Excellency* can also attach to a prestigious quality, notably in an order of knighthood. For example, in the [Empire of Brazil](/source/Empire_of_Brazil), it was attached to the highest classes, each time called *[Grand Cross](/source/Grand_Cross)*, of all three imperial orders: [Imperial Order of Pedro I](/source/Order_of_Pedro_I), [Imperial Order of the Southern Cross](/source/Order_of_the_Southern_Cross) with the military honours of a [Lieutenant general](/source/Lieutenant_general) and [Order of the Rose](/source/Order_of_the_Rose).

Knights of the Collar and Knights Grand Cross of the Spanish Orders of Chivalry, such as the [Order of Charles III](/source/Order_of_Charles_III), [Order of Isabella the Catholic](/source/Order_of_Isabella_the_Catholic), [Order of Civil Merit](/source/Order_of_Civil_Merit), [Order of Alfonso X the Wise](/source/Civil_Order_of_Alfonso_X%2C_the_Wise), [Royal Order of Sports Merit](/source/Royal_Order_of_Sports_Merit), [Civil Order of Health](/source/Civil_Order_of_Health), as well as recipients of the Grand Cross of [Military](/source/Crosses_of_Military_Merit_(Spain)), [Naval](/source/Crosses_of_Naval_Merit_(Spain)), and [Aeronautical Merit](/source/Crosses_of_Aeronautical_Merit_(Spain)) are addressed as such. Furthermore, Knights Grand Cross of the [Order of the Holy Sepulchre of Jerusalem](/source/Order_of_the_Holy_Sepulchre_(Catholic)), [Order of Saint Gregory the Great](/source/Order_of_Saint_Gregory_the_Great), and the [Order of St. Sylvester](/source/Order_of_St._Sylvester) of the [Holy See](/source/Holy_See), and Grand Cross of The Lion, Crested Crane, Crown, and The Drum of Rwanda, and Knights of the [Order of the Golden Fleece](/source/Order_of_the_Golden_Fleece), and Knights Grand Cross of several other orders of high prestige, are often addressed as *Excellency*.[6]

## Ecclesiastical use

By a decree of the Sacred Congregation of Ceremonial of 31 December 1930[7] the [Holy See](/source/Holy_See) granted bishops of the [Catholic Church](/source/Catholic_Church) the title of *Most Reverend Excellency* or *Excellentia Reverendissima* in [Latin](/source/Latin). In the years following the [First World War](/source/First_World_War), the ambassadorial title of *Excellency*, previously given to [nuncios](/source/Nuncio), had already begun to be used by other Catholic bishops. The adjective *Most Reverend* was intended to distinguish the religious title from that of *Excellency* given to civil officials.

The instruction *Ut sive sollicite* of the Holy See's [Secretariat of State](/source/Secretariat_of_State_(Holy_See)), dated 28 March 1969, made the addition of *Most Reverend* optional,[8] sanctioning what had always been the practice, except possibly for the beginnings of letters and the like.

According to the letter of the decree of 31 December 1930, titular [patriarchs](/source/Patriarch#Roman_Catholicism) too were to be addressed with the title of *(Most Reverend) Excellency*, but in practice the Holy See continued to address them with the title of *Beatitude*, which was formally sanctioned for them with the motu proprio *Cleri sanctitati* of 2 June 1957.

[Cardinals](/source/Cardinal_(Catholicism)), even those who were bishops, continued to use the title of *Eminence*.

[Eastern Orthodox](/source/Eastern_Orthodox) [titular metropolitans](/source/Titular_metropolitan) are addressed with the style of *Excellency*.

In some English-speaking countries, the honorific of *Excellency* does not apply to bishops other than the nuncio. In English law, [Anglican](/source/Anglican) archbishops are granted the title of *[His/Her Grace](/source/Grace_(style))*, similar to a duke, and bishops are granted the title of *Lord*. The same titles are extended by courtesy to their Catholic counterparts, and continue in use in most countries that are or have been members of the Commonwealth,[*[citation needed](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Wikipedia:Citation_needed)*] with the exception of the former British East African countries of [Kenya](/source/Kenya), [Uganda](/source/Uganda) or [Tanzania](/source/Tanzania).

## By country

### Afghanistan

In Afghanistan the title *Jalalat Mahab* is used for [Sardars](/source/Sardar), or Princes of the former [Muhammadzai Dynasty](/source/Barakzai_dynasty), who are descendants of the Afghan King [Sultan Mohammed Khan Telai](/source/Sultan_Mohammad_Khan). Although Jalalat Mahab is derived from the Arabic term *Jalalat* literally meaning *His Majesty*, it is regarded as equal to *His Excellency* or *His Royal Highness* internationally.

The descendants of [King Nadir Shah](/source/Mohammed_Nadir_Shah) held the title *Alaa Hazrat* in which context *Hazrat* is Turkish and means *Majesty* or *Highness* and thus literally translated means *Higher Majesty* or *Higher Highness* and is internationally also equal to *His Royal Highness*. The King himself held the title *Alaa Hazrat Humayoon* which literally translated means *His Most Noble Majesty*, and can be equalized with *His Majesty* internationally. [President Daoud Khan](/source/Mohammed_Daoud_Khan), the Cousin of the last Afghan King [Zahir Shah](/source/Mohammed_Zahir_Shah), who acted as prime minister under his cousin held the address *Jalalat Mahab Aali Qadr Sardari Alaa* during his term as [Prime Minister](/source/Prime_minister).

### Albania

The [president](/source/President_of_Albania), the [chairman of the Parliament](/source/Chairman_of_the_Parliament_of_Albania) and the [prime minister](/source/Prime_Minister_of_Albania) are referred to as *His/Her Excellency*.

### Armenia

The [president](/source/President_of_Armenia), the [prime minister](/source/Prime_minister_of_Armenia), the [chairman of the Parliament](/source/Chairman_of_the_Parliament_of_Armenia), as well as ministers and ambassadors of [Armenia](/source/Armenia) are addressed as *Excellency*, which in [Armenian](/source/Armenian_language) is *Ձերդ գերազանցութիւն*, Romanized *Dzerd gerazancutiwn*. The members of the traditional [Armenian nobility](/source/Armenian_nobility) are also addressed as *Excellency*, which in [Armenian](/source/Armenian_language) it is *Ձերդ պայծառութիւն* Romanized as *Dzerd paytzarrowtiwn*, literally *Your Brightness*.

### Bangladesh

In [Bangladesh](/source/Bangladesh) the [president](/source/President_of_Bangladesh), [prime minister](/source/Prime_minister_of_Bangladesh), [chief adviser](/source/Chief_Adviser_(Bangladesh)),[9] the [speaker of the Parliament](/source/Speaker_of_the_Parliament_of_Bangladesh) and international diplomats are styled with *His/Her Excellency*.

### Barbados

The [president](/source/President_of_Barbados), is styled with *His/Her Excellency* formally while their informal title is "Mr./ Madam President".

### Belgium

Members of the [Council of Ministers of Belgium](/source/Council_of_Ministers_of_Belgium), consisting of the [prime minister](/source/Prime_Minister_of_Belgium), [deputy prime minister(s)](/source/Deputy_Prime_Minister), other [ministers](/source/Federal_Government_of_Belgium), and [Secretaries of state](/source/Secretary_of_state#Belgium), and also honorary [ministers of state](/source/Minister_of_State_(Belgium)), are entitled to the style of *His/Her Excellency*.

The style is also used for the [governors of Belgium](/source/Governor#Benelux_monarchies), which are governors of the ten [provinces of Belgium](/source/Provinces_of_Belgium), [governor of Brussels](/source/Governor_of_Brussels), governor of the [national bank of Belgium](/source/National_bank_of_Belgium) and both foreign ambassadors in Belgium and Belgian ambassadors to other countries.

Moreover, within the [Catholic Church in Belgium](/source/Catholic_Church_in_Belgium), the ([arch-](/source/Archbishop))[bishops](/source/Bishop) and [(pro-)nuntia](/source/Nuncio) are referred to as *His Excellency Monsignor* or *Zijne Excellentie Monseigneur* in Dutch, *Son Excellence Monseigneur* in French and *Seine Exzellenz Monsignore* in German .

### Brazil

In 1991, the [Brazilian](/source/Brazil) [Presidential Office](/source/President_of_Brazil) issued a composition manual to establish the appropriate usage of the [Portuguese language](/source/Portuguese_language) for all government agencies. The manual states that the title of *Excelência* (Excellency) is the proper form used to address the president and [vice president](/source/Vice-President_of_Brazil), all [members of parliament](/source/Congresso_Nacional) and [judges](/source/Judge), among other officials.[10]

### Cambodia

In the [Kingdom of Cambodia](/source/Kingdom_of_Cambodia), deputy prime ministers, senior ministers, members of the [Council of Ministers](/source/Cabinet_of_Cambodia), secretary of state, and members of [Parliament](/source/Parliament_of_Cambodia) are referred to as "His/Her Excellency" ([Khmer](/source/Khmer_language): ឯកឧត្ដម, *Êk Ŏtdâm*/លោកជំទាវ, *Loŭk Chumtéav*).

### Commonwealth of Nations

Within the Commonwealth of Nations, the following officials usually use the style *His or Her Excellency*:

- The [Commonwealth secretary-general](/source/Commonwealth_Secretary-General);

- Presidents of Commonwealth republics;

- [Governors](/source/Governor) and [governors-general](/source/Governor-general), and the spouses of governors-general;[11]

- Commonwealth [high commissioners](/source/High_commissioner) (but *not* their spouses);

- Foreign ambassadors (but *not* their spouses);

- Foreign dignitaries who are entitled to the style in their own countries.

While reference may be made to the *King's Most Excellent Majesty*, the style *Excellency* is not used with reference to the [King](/source/Monarchy_of_the_United_Kingdom).

### Chile

The [president of Chile](/source/President_of_Chile) and the [president of the Chamber of Deputies of Chile](/source/President_of_the_Chamber_of_Deputies_of_Chile) are referred to by the style "His/Her Excellency".

### Finland

The [president of Finland](/source/President_of_Finland) and [prime minister of Finland](/source/Prime_minister_of_Finland) are both referred to by the style "His/Her Excellency" in international diplomacy.

### Germany

The [president of Germany](/source/President_of_Germany) and [chancellor of Germany](/source/Chancellor_of_Germany) are both referred to by the style "Excellency" in international diplomacy, albeit not domestically.

### India

The [president of India](/source/President_of_India) and [governors](/source/Governor) of Indian states are addressed as Rashtrapati Mahoday/Rashtrapati Mahodaya (if lady) (राष्ट्रपति महोदय / राष्ट्रपति महोदया (if lady), Honourable President) and Rajyapal Mahoday/Rajyapal Mahodaya (if lady) (राज्यपाल महोदय /राज्यपाल महोदया (if lady), Honourable Governor) respectively.

*His/Her Excellency*, a custom dating from the ancient times wherein the Samrāṭa and Sāmrājñī (सम्राट, साम्राज्ञी / Emperor, Empress), Generals, Kings, Ambassadors were addressed. A classic example is addressing Devavrata ([Bhishma](/source/Bhishma)) as महामहिम भीष्म (His/Your Excellency Bhishma) in [Mahabharata](/source/Mahabharata).

However the Constitution makers[*[clarification needed](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Wikipedia:Please_clarify)*] approved will discontinue "ancient era" styles of Mahamahim. The same release states that in [English](/source/English_language) (which is the other language in which subsidiary official communications are released in the Central [Government of India](/source/Government_of_India) in its capacity of Sahayak Rajbhasha: Subsidiary Officiating language) the style Honourable shall replace the erstwhile His/Her/Your Excellency. The newer style will be *Honourable*.

The corresponding changes in releases from the President's Secretariat shall be from Mahamahim to Rashtrapati[-ji](/source/-ji).[12] The release also talks about the styles of other dignitaries, like [governors](/source/Governors). "Hon'ble" will be used before the titles "president" and "governor", while the traditional honorifics *[Shri](/source/Sri)* or *Smt.* (*Shrimati*) should precede the name.

However, "Excellency" will continue to be used, only for interaction of leaders with foreign dignitaries and foreign dignitaries with Indian leaders as is customary international practice.

### Ireland

The [president of Ireland](/source/President_of_Ireland) is addressed as *Your Excellency* or in the Irish language, *a Shoilse* (literally, "brightness ([voc](/source/Vocative_case))".[13] Alternatively, one may address the president simply as *President* or in the Irish language *a Uachtaráin*.

### Italy

The [president of Italy](/source/President_of_Italy) and the [prime minister of Italy](/source/Prime_minister_of_Italy) (officially called President of the Council of Ministers) are referred to as "His/Her Excellency" in international diplomacy. Furthermore, the terms "president" and "premier" are used as well. This latter is an informal and common address for the prime minister of Italy. For both institutional charges, the term "president" is usually exploited in formal and informal situations.

### Jordan

Like many countries that once formed part of the Ottoman Empire, *His/Her Excellency* is used as the style for those with the title of [Bey](/source/Bey) or [Pasha](/source/Pasha). In Arabic the latter titles are often included between the first and last names of the holder, while in English the titles are not usually included and the style of *His/Her Excellency* is used on its own. Those styled this way include government ministers, senior military officers, and the husbands and children of Princesses.

### Kenya

The [president of Kenya](/source/President_of_Kenya) is referred to as "His/Her Excellency".

The governors of the counties and diplomats are also referred to as "His/Her Excellency".

### Malaysia

The [governors](/source/Yang_di-Pertua_Negeri) (*Yang di-Pertua Negeri*) of [Melaka](/source/Yang_di-Pertua_Negeri_Melaka), [Penang](/source/Yang_di-Pertua_Negeri_of_Penang), [Sabah](/source/Yang_di-Pertua_Negeri_of_Sabah), and [Sarawak](/source/Yang_di-Pertua_Negeri_of_Sarawak) are referred to as "His Excellency" (Tuan Yang Terutama). High commissioners and ambassadors are also referred to as "His/Her Excellency" (Tuan/Puan Yang Terutama).

### Monaco

The [Minister of State](/source/Minister_of_State), who acts as the Prime Minister of the Principality, is referred to as "His Excellency".

### Myanmar

The [president of Myanmar](/source/President_of_Myanmar), [first lady](/source/First_Lady_of_Myanmar), [state counsellor](/source/State_Counsellor_of_Myanmar), vice-presidents of Myanmar, [speaker of the Pyidaungsu Hluttaw](/source/Speaker_of_the_Assembly_of_the_Union_of_Myanmar), [speaker of the House of Nationalities](/source/Speaker_of_the_House_of_Nationalities), [speaker of the House of Representatives of Myanmar](/source/Speaker_of_the_House_of_Representatives_of_Myanmar), governor of the [Central Bank of Myanmar](/source/Central_Bank_of_Myanmar), members of the [Cabinet of Myanmar](/source/Cabinet_of_Myanmar), [chief ministers of states and regions of Myanmar](/source/Chief_Ministers_of_States_and_Regions_of_Myanmar), mayors and [ambassadors](/source/List_of_diplomatic_missions_of_Myanmar) are referred to as "His/Her Excellency" while justices of the [Supreme Court of Myanmar](/source/Supreme_Court_of_Myanmar) are referred to as "The Honourable".

### The Netherlands

Members of the [cabinet of the Netherlands](/source/Cabinet_of_the_Netherlands) ([prime minister](/source/Prime_Minister_of_the_Netherlands), [deputy prime minister(s)](/source/Deputy_Prime_Minister_of_the_Netherlands), other [ministers](/source/Ministries_of_the_Netherlands), and [state secretaries](/source/Undersecretary#Netherlands)), but also honorary [ministers of state](/source/Minister_of_State_(Netherlands)), are entitled to the style of "His/Her Excellency".[14]

The style is also used for the executive officers of the Dutch royal court (great officers of the Royal House, [hofmarschall](/source/Hofmarschall), [equerries](/source/Equerries)), governors of the [constituent countries of the Kingdom of the Netherlands](/source/Kingdom_of_the_Netherlands#Constituent_countries) ([Aruba](/source/Governor_of_Aruba), [Curaçao](/source/Governor_of_Cura%C3%A7ao), and [Sint Maarten](/source/Governor_of_Sint_Maarten)), ambassadors (both foreign ambassadors in the Netherlands and Dutch ambassadors to other countries), judges of the [International Court of Justice](/source/International_Court_of_Justice), and [flag-](/source/Flag-officer) and [general officers](/source/General_officer) of three-star rank and above ([generals](/source/General), [lieutenant-generals](/source/Lieutenant-general), [lieutenant-admirals](/source/Lieutenant-admiral), and [vice-admirals](/source/Vice-admiral)).

Moreover, within the [Catholic Church in the Netherlands](/source/Catholic_Church_in_the_Netherlands), the ([arch-](/source/Archbishop))[bishops](/source/Bishop) and [(pro-)nuntia](/source/Nuncio) are referred to as "His Most Reverend Excellency" (i.e. in Dutch as *Zijne Hoogwaardige Excellentie*).

### Nigeria

The [president of Nigeria](/source/President_of_Nigeria) and [vice-president of Nigeria](/source/Vice-president_of_Nigeria) share the style "His/Her Excellency" with the various governors and their deputies of the country's regional states as well as their wives.

### Peru

The [president of Peru](/source/President_of_Peru) is referred to as "His/Her Excellency" (In [Spanish](/source/Spanish_language): *Su Excelencia*) if in diplomatic context.

### Philippines

The [president](/source/President_of_the_Philippines) ([Filipino](/source/Filipino_language): *pangulo*; [Spanish](/source/Spanish_language_in_the_Philippines) and colloquially: *presidente*) is addressed in [English](/source/English_language_in_the_Philippines) as "Your Excellency" and "Sir" or "Ma'am" thereafter, and is referred to "His/Her Excellency". The president can also less formally be addressed as "Mister/Madam President". In Filipino, the president may be referred to with the more formal title of "*Ang Mahál na Pangulo*", with "*mahál*" connoting greatness and high social importance.[nb 1]

[Populist](/source/Populist) president [Rodrigo Duterte](/source/Rodrigo_Duterte) has expressed dislike for the traditional title. After assuming office in June 2016, he ordered that the title, along with all honorifics, be dropped from official communications, events, and materials but instead, he be addressed only as "Mayor" since people are already used to calling him as such due to Duterte being the longest-serving [mayor of Davao City](/source/Mayor_of_Davao_City) and that his cabinet officials only be addressed as "Secretary". Other government officials followed suit by abandoning use of "The Honorable".[15] However, despite the prior unofficial abandonment, the president continues to be addressed as "Excellency" in formal correspondences and petitions, either verbally or written.

All other local and national government officials are styled "[The Honorable](/source/The_Honorable#Philippines)"; both titles, however, may be glossed in Filipino as *Ang Kagalang-galang*.

### Portugal

In [Portugal](/source/Portugal), the proper style of the [president](/source/President_of_Portugal) is "His/Her Excellency" ([Portuguese](/source/Portuguese_language): Sua Excelência).

### Somalia

The [president of Somalia](/source/President_of_Somalia) is referred to as "His/Her Excellency" or "Jaale". Jaale was also a title used by armed forces staff officers of all branches, especially in the Aden Adde-Shermarke Era, and the Barre Era but has now is rare and has become a title for civil servants and senior government secretaries.

### South Africa

The [president of South Africa](/source/President_of_South_Africa) (and historically the [state president of the South African Republic](/source/State_President_of_the_South_African_Republic)), is (and was) referred to as "His/Her Excellency" if in a formal context.

### South Korea

The [president of South Korea](/source/President_of_South_Korea) is referred to as "His/Her Excellency" ([Korean](/source/Korean_language): 각하, [romanized](/source/Romanization_of_Korean): *gagha*) if in a formal context both inside and outside of [South Korea](/source/South_Korea).

### Spain

Spain uses the title "[The Most Excellent](/source/The_Most_Excellent)" extensively as a formal address to high officers of the state. The following officials receive the treatment:

- The [prime minister](/source/Prime_Minister_of_Spain)[16] and former prime ministers,[17] current and former deputy prime ministers of the central government, current and former government ministers,[18] current junior ministers (*secretaries of state*) and the undersecretary of the Foreign Ministry.

- [Government delegates](/source/Government_Delegation_(Spain)).[19]

- Ambassadors and ministers plenipotentiaries of first and second rank.[20]

- Captain generals, generals of the army, admiral generals, generals of the Air, lieutenant generals, admirals, [divisional generals](/source/Divisional_general), vice-admirals, brigadier generals, and [counter admirals](/source/Counter_admiral).[21]

- The president, councillors, and secretary general of the [Council of State](/source/Spanish_Council_of_State), as well as the chief counsels of the Council of State.[22]

- The president and former presidents of each of the [autonomous communities](/source/Autonomous_communities), as well as the sitting councillors (regional ministers).

- The president of the [Congress of Deputies](/source/Congress_of_Deputies), the president of the [Senate](/source/Senate), all members of the Cortes Generales (although the later are usually referred to as "His/Her Lordship" (sp. *Su señoría*).

- The members of the [General Council of the Judiciary](/source/General_Council_of_the_Judiciary), the president and the judges of the [Spanish Supreme Court](/source/Spanish_Supreme_Court), the [Spanish Attorney General](/source/Spanish_Attorney_General), and the members of the [Spanish Constitutional Court](/source/Spanish_Constitutional_Court).

- The presidents and numeraries of the eight Royal Academies.

- The governor of the [Bank of Spain](/source/Bank_of_Spain).

- The presidents of the three Foral Deputation (provincial governments) of the [Basque Country](/source/Basque_Country_(autonomous_community)), and the president of the Deputation of Barcelona.

- The [rectors](/source/Rector_(academia)) of the Universities (usually referred to as His/Her Excellency and Magnificence).

- [Grandees of Spain](/source/Grandees_of_Spain) and their consort, as well the Heirs of Grandees and their consort

- Knights/Dames of the Collar and Knights/Dames Grand Cross of the Spanish [military and civilian orders](/source/Orders%2C_decorations%2C_and_medals_of_Spain)

The style "His Excellency", which has a higher connotation than "The Most Excellent", is instead reserved for the children of an Infante or Infanta, who have the rank (but not the title) of Grandees.[23]

### Sri Lanka

The president of [Sri Lanka](/source/Sri_Lanka) was referred to as *His/Her Excellency*. This was until 2022, when President Ranil Wickremesinghe banned the use. However, it is still used diplomatically.

### Sweden

The [Swedish language](/source/Swedish_language) titles and forms of address are *Hans/Hennes Excellens* (His/Her Excellency) and *Ers Excellens* (Your Excellency).

During most of the 20th century in [Sweden](/source/Sweden), only three officials (other than foreign ambassadors [accredited](/source/Letter_of_credence) in Sweden and Swedish ambassadors at their posts) were granted to the style of *Excellency*: the [prime minister](/source/Prime_Minister_of_Sweden), the [minister for foreign affairs](/source/Minister_for_Foreign_Affairs_(Sweden)) and the [marshal of the realm](/source/Marshal_of_the_Realm_(Sweden)) (the highest ranking [courtier](/source/Courtier)). They were collectively referred to as "the three excellencies" ([Swedish](/source/Swedish_language): *de tre excellenserna*).[24][25] In the 1970s it fell out of custom in Sweden to address the prime minister and the minister of foreign affairs as such, although they continue to be addressed as such in [United Nations](/source/United_Nations) protocol and in other diplomatic writing.[26] Since then only the Marshal of the Realm uses the style regularly.

Prior to the 19th century, a [Lord of the Realm](/source/Lord_of_the_Realm) ([Swedish](/source/Swedish_language): *En af Rikets Herrar*) and a member of the [Council of the Realm](/source/Privy_Council_of_Sweden) were also entitled to the style of Excellency.

### Thailand

The [prime Minister of Thailand](/source/Prime_Minister_of_Thailand), deputy prime ministers, other cabinet members, governors and ambassadors are referred to as "His/Her Excellency".[27]

### Turkey

In the English language, the [president](/source/President_of_Turkey) and the [vice-president](/source/Vice_President_of_Turkey), [cabinet ministers](/source/Cabinet_of_Turkey), [ambassadors](/source/List_of_diplomatic_missions_of_Turkey), and some other high-ranking bureaucrats are addressed as *Excellency*.

In the Turkish language, honorific titles are no longer used since the 1923 modernisation of the language; under [Atatürk's Reforms](/source/Atat%C3%BCrk's_reforms). Instead of *Excellency*, dignitaries are addressed using the Turkish word for *Honorable* (Turkish: *Sayın*) followed by their office.[28] For example, an ambassador of Turkey would be addressed simply as *Honorable Ambassador* (Turkish: *Sayın Büyükelçi*). It is important to emphasise that this distinction only applies when speaking in the Turkish language, not in English. Additionally, in very rare [ceremonial](/source/Ceremony) circumstances, the word *Excellency* is used in Turkish. An example would be the formal [accreditation](/source/Accreditation) of a Turkish ambassador, wherein the letter of confidence authored by the [Turkish president](/source/President_of_Turkey) would address the ambassador as *Excellency* (Turkish: *Ekselansları*).

### United States

In the [United States](/source/United_States), the form *Excellency* was commonly used for [George Washington](/source/George_Washington) during his service as commander-in-chief of the [Continental Army](/source/Continental_Army) and later when [president of the United States](/source/President_of_the_United_States), but it began to fall out of use with his successor [John Adams](/source/John_Adams), and today is sometimes replaced in direct address with the simple *[Mr. President](/source/Mr._President_(title))* or *the [Honorable](/source/The_Honourable#United_States)*.

Nevertheless, in the protocol of many foreign countries and [United Nations](/source/United_Nations), the president and the [secretary of state](/source/United_States_Secretary_of_State) are usually referred to as *Excellency*. Diplomatic correspondence to President [Abraham Lincoln](/source/Abraham_Lincoln) during the [American Civil War](/source/American_Civil_War), as during the [*Trent* Affair](/source/Trent_Affair), for instance, frequently addressed him as *Your Excellency*.

The form *Excellency* was used for the [governors](/source/Governor_(United_States)) of most of the original [Thirteen Colonies](/source/Thirteen_Colonies), and the practice formally continued after [independence](/source/American_Revolution). For example, the term was formerly used in [Georgia](/source/Georgia_(U.S._state)) on the [state governor](/source/Governor_of_Georgia)'s letterhead, the text of [executive orders](/source/Executive_order), any document that required the governor's signature, and informal settings. However, in most states the practice fell out of use (or was never introduced) and the title *[Honorable](/source/The_Honourable#United_States_of_America)* is now used instead.[29]

Though the U.S. president and U.S. ambassadors are traditionally accorded the style elsewhere, the U.S. government does not usually use *Excellency* for its own chiefs of missions, preferring *Honorable* instead.

## See also

Look up ***[Excellence](https://en.wiktionary.org/wiki/Excellence)***, ***[Excellency](https://en.wiktionary.org/wiki/Excellency)***, or ***[excellency](https://en.wiktionary.org/wiki/excellency)*** in Wiktionary, the free dictionary.

- [Canadian honorifics](/source/Canadian_honorifics)

- [Ecclesiastical titles and styles](/source/Ecclesiastical_titles_and_styles)

- *[His Excellency](/source/His_Excellency_(opera))* (opera)

- [Style (manner of address)](/source/Style_(manner_of_address))

## Notes

1. **[^](#cite_ref-15)** The [Tagalog](/source/Tagalog_language) word "mahál" is often translated as "love" and "expensive", but its original sense has a range of meanings from "treasured" to "the most valuable". It is often applied to royalty, roughly equivalent to the Western "[Majesty](/source/Majesty)" (e.g. *Mahál na Harì*, "His Majesty, the King"; *Kamahalan*, "Your Majesty"), and at times used for lower-ranking nobles in the manner of "[Highness](/source/Highness)", which has the more exact translation of *Kataás-taasan*. It is also found in religious contexts, such as referring to [Catholic](/source/Catholicism_in_the_Philippines) [patron saints](/source/Patron_saints), the [Blessed Virgin Mary](/source/Blessed_Virgin_Mary) (e.g. *Ang Mahál na Ina/Birhen*), or [Christ](/source/Christ) (e.g., *Ang Mahál na Poóng [Nazareno](/source/Black_Nazarene)*).

## References

1. **[^](#cite_ref-1)** ["Forms of Address"](https://garzaprotocol.com/forms-of-address/). *Garza Protocol Associates*. 22 March 2017. Retrieved 9 June 2021.

1. **[^](#cite_ref-2)** *Protocol - The Complete Handbook of Diplomatic, Official, and Social Usage* (page 21), by [Mary Jane McCaffree](/source/Mary_Jane_McCaffree) and Pauline Innes, published by Hepburn Books, Dallas, Texas [\[1\]](http://www.usaprotocol.com) [Archived](https://web.archive.org/web/20120301195037/http://www.usaprotocol.com/) 1 March 2012 at the [Wayback Machine](/source/Wayback_Machine), 1977, 1985, 1989, 1997 [ISBN](/source/ISBN_(identifier)) [0-941402-04-5](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Special:BookSources/0-941402-04-5)

1. **[^](#cite_ref-3)** ["Heads of state, heads of government, ministers for foreign affairs"](https://web.archive.org/web/20240905210531/https://www.un.int/protocol/sites/www.un.int/files/Protocol%20and%20Liaison%20Service/hspmfm.pdf) (PDF). *Protocol and Liaison Service*. United Nations. 24 August 2016. Archived from [the original](https://www.un.int/protocol/sites/www.un.int/files/Protocol%20and%20Liaison%20Service/hspmfm.pdf) (PDF) on 5 September 2024. Retrieved 9 June 2021.

1. **[^](#cite_ref-4)** Williams, Stephanie (2011). *Running the Show: Governors of the British Empire*. Viking. [ISBN](/source/ISBN_(identifier)) [978-0-670-91804-1](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Special:BookSources/978-0-670-91804-1).

1. **[^](#cite_ref-5)** ["Nobility of Sulu"](https://sultanateofsulu.ecseachamber.org/nobility-of-sulu/index-1.htm). *ROYAL AND HASHEMITE ORDER OF THE PEARL*. [Archived](https://web.archive.org/web/20190419084633/http://orderofthepearl.org/nobility-of-sulu/) from the original on 19 April 2019. Retrieved 19 April 2019.

1. **[^](#cite_ref-6)** ["Satow, Ernest Mason, Sir - A Guide to Diplomatic Practice"](https://archive.org/details/guidetodiplomati00satouoft). 10 March 2001. Retrieved 1 February 2013.

1. **[^](#cite_ref-7)** *[Acta Apostolicae Sedis](/source/Acta_Apostolicae_Sedis)* 1931, p. 22; *[L'Osservatore Romano](/source/L'Osservatore_Romano)* 24 January 1931.

1. **[^](#cite_ref-8)** [*Ut sive sollicite*](http://catholicsites.org/clericaldress/utsivesollicite.html), 22

1. **[^](#cite_ref-9)** ["Congratulatory Letter from Prime Minister Lawrence Wong to Chief Adviser of the Government of the People's Republic of Bangladesh Professor Muhammad Yunus"](https://web.archive.org/web/20240920114744/https://www.mfa.gov.sg/Newsroom/Press-Statements-Transcripts-and-Photos/2024/08/Congratulatory-Letter-to-Bangladesh_240815). *www.mfa.gov.sg*. [Ministry of Foreign Affairs (Singapore)](/source/Ministry_of_Foreign_Affairs_(Singapore)). 15 August 2024. Archived from [the original](https://www.mfa.gov.sg/Newsroom/Press-Statements-Transcripts-and-Photos/2024/08/Congratulatory-Letter-to-Bangladesh_240815) on 20 September 2024.

1. **[^](#cite_ref-10)** [Manual de Redação da Presidência da República](http://www4.planalto.gov.br/centrodeestudos/assuntos/manual-de-redacao-da-presidencia-da-republica/manual-de-redacao.pdf) (in Portuguese)

1. **[^](#cite_ref-11)** ["General examples of addressing or referring in speech to titled and official persons"](https://www.dpc.vic.gov.au/index.php/policies/protocol/forms-of-address). Victoria State Government, Department of Premier and Cabinet. Retrieved 21 November 2018.

1. **[^](#cite_ref-12)** President's Secretariat (3 October 2012). ["President Approves New Protocol Practice"](http://pib.nic.in/newsite/erelease.aspx?relid=88279). Press Information Bureau, Government or India. Retrieved 31 January 2014.

1. **[^](#cite_ref-13)** Gosling, James Patrick (12 September 2019). [*Raymond Queneau's Dubliners: Bewildered by Excess of Love*](https://books.google.com/books?id=EjqvDwAAQBAJ&dq=%22a+Shoilse.%22+brightness&pg=PA131). Cambridge Scholars Publishing. [ISBN](/source/ISBN_(identifier)) [9781527539907](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Special:BookSources/9781527539907) – via Google Books.

1. **[^](#cite_ref-14)** ["Titels en titulatuur in Nederland (algemeen)"](https://taaladvies.net/titels-en-titulatuur-in-nederland-algemeen/) [Titles in The Netherlands]. taaladvies.net. 12 May 2021. Retrieved 18 April 2024.

1. **[^](#cite_ref-16)** Salaverria, Leila B. (22 July 2016). ["Don't call me 'Your Excellency'"](http://newsinfo.inquirer.net/798090/dont-call-me-your-excellency). The Philippine Daily Inquirer. Retrieved 19 January 2017.

1. **[^](#cite_ref-17)** Arts. 3 y 13 del RD 1051/2002

1. **[^](#cite_ref-18)** Real Decreto 405/1992

1. **[^](#cite_ref-19)** Real Decreto 5 de enero de 1786, estableciendo el tratamiento de *Excelentísimo Señor* en la correspondencia de oficio a los Secretarios del despacho universal (Novísima Recopilación, l. 2, t. 12, l. 6); Real Decreto de 16 de mayo de 1788: "Para evitar la variedad con que se ha procedido por diversas personas y secretarías en quanto (*sic*) a tratamientos, después de vista y examinada la materia en mi Suprema Junta de Estado, he venido en declarar que el tratamiento de *excelencia* se dé enteramente poniendo encima de los escritos *excelentísimo señor* a los grandes y consejeros de Estado, o que tienen honores de tales, como hasta aquí se ha hecho [...]" Por su parte, el Decreto de las Cortes de Cádiz de 8 de junio de 1812 establece que los Secretarios de Estado y del Despacho, que lo fueren en propiedad, y mientras permanecieren en el empleo, tendrán el mismo tratamiento que los consejeros de Estado. Mediante Real Decreto de 19 de noviembre de 1823, se creó el Consejo de Ministros, formado por los Secretarios de Estado y del Despacho.

1. **[^](#cite_ref-20)** Artículo quinto del Real Decreto 3117/1980

1. **[^](#cite_ref-21)** Art. 38 del Reglamento Orgánico de la Carrera Diplomática de 15 de julio de 1955. No obstante, conforme a dicho precepto, a todos los Ministros Plenipotenciarios Jefes de Misión Diplomática (es decir, también a los que no sean de primera y segunda clase), mientras ejerzan sus funciones en el extranjero, se lea dará el tratamiento de Excelencia.

1. **[^](#cite_ref-RROO_22-0)** Art. 302 de las Reales Ordenanzas del Ejército de Tierra, art. 491 de las Reales Ordenanzas de la Armada y art. 341 de las Reales Ordenanzas del Ejército del Aire.

1. **[^](#cite_ref-23)** Arts. 14, 23 y 56 del Real Decreto 1674/1980

1. **[^](#cite_ref-24)** ["Real Decreto 1368/1987, de 6 de noviembre, sobre régimen de títulos, tratamientos y honores de la Familia Real y de los Regentes"](http://www.boe.es/diario_boe/txt.php?id=BOE-A-1987-25284) [Royal Decree 1368/1987, dated 6 November, regulating titles, forms of address and honours pertaining to the Royal Family and to the Regents]. *Boletín Oficial del Estado*.

1. **[^](#cite_ref-25)** ["Sveriges statskalender", 1915](https://runeberg.org/statskal/1915/0066.html), [Project Runeberg](/source/Project_Runeberg). Retrieved on 8 June 2013. (in Swedish)

1. **[^](#cite_ref-26)** ["Sveriges statskalender", 1964](https://runeberg.org/statskal/1964/0057.html), [Project Runeberg](/source/Project_Runeberg). Retrieved on 8 June 2013. (in Swedish)

1. **[^](#cite_ref-27)** ["Heads of state, heads of government, ministers for foreign affairs"](https://web.archive.org/web/20120927014351/http://www.un.int/protocol/documents/Hspmfm.pdf) (PDF). Protocol and Liaison Service, [United Nations](/source/United_Nations). 22 September 2012. Archived from [the original](http://www.un.int/protocol/documents/Hspmfm.pdf) (PDF) on 27 September 2012. Retrieved 8 June 2013.

1. **[^](#cite_ref-28)** ["His Excellency Gen. Prayut Chan-o-cha, Prime Minister of the Kingdom of Thailand congratulated His Excellency Mr. Joko Widodo, President of the Republic of Indonesia on his reelection victory on 17 April 2019"](http://www.thaiembassyjakarta.com/en/his-excellency-gen-prayut-chan-o-cha-prime-minister-of-the-kingdom-of-thailand-congratulated-his-excellency-mr-joko-widodo-president-of-the-republic-of-indonesia-on-his-reelection-victory-on-17-ap/). *สถานเอกอัครราชทูต ณ กรุงจาการ์ตา*. 24 May 2019. Retrieved 9 June 2021.

1. **[^](#cite_ref-29)** ["Unvanlar / T.C. Dışişleri Bakanlığı"](https://www.mfa.gov.tr/unvanlar.tr.mfa). *www.mfa.gov.tr*. Retrieved 9 March 2023.

1. **[^](#cite_ref-30)** Georgia Department of Economic Development (GDEcD). ["Georgia Protocol Guide"](http://www.georgia.org/wp-content/uploads/2013/09/Georgia-Protocol-guide-.pdf) (PDF). *Georgia Department of Economic Development (Georgia.org)*.

[1]

## Further reading

Look up ***[Excellency](https://en.wiktionary.org/wiki/Excellency)*** in Wiktionary, the free dictionary.

- [Phillips, Walter Alison](/source/Walter_Alison_Phillips) (1911). ["Excellency"](https://en.wikisource.org/wiki/1911_Encyclop%C3%A6dia_Britannica/Excellency). *[Encyclopædia Britannica](/source/Encyclop%C3%A6dia_Britannica_Eleventh_Edition)*. Vol. 10 (11th ed.). pp. 49–50.

- [v](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Template:Ecclestiastical_styles)
- [t](/source/Template_talk%3AEcclestiastical_styles)
- [e](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Special:EditPage/Template:Ecclestiastical_styles)

Catholic Church Style Pope His Holiness Cardinal His Eminence Bishop His Excellency

v t e Imperial, royal, and noble styles Forms of address for popes, royalty, and nobility Africa Nəgusä Nägäst Nkosi Pharaoh Mansa Faama Buurba Damel Teigne Lamane Kurmina-fari Saltigue Maad Buumi Silatigi Almami Moro-Naba Oba Yaa Naa Western Holiness Imperial and Royal Majesty (HI&RM) Imperial and Most Faithful Majesty Imperial Majesty (HIM) Apostolic Majesty (HAM) Catholic Monarchs Catholic Majesty (HCM) Most Christian Majesty (HMCM) Most Faithful Majesty (HMFM) Orthodox Majesty (HOM) Britannic Majesty (HBM) Most Excellent Majesty Most Gracious Majesty Royal Majesty (HRM) Majesty (HM) Grace (HG) Royal Highness (HRH) Monseigneur (Msgr) Most Eminent Highness (HMEH) Exalted Highness (HEH) Highness (HH) Serene Highness (HSH) Illustrious Highness (HIll.H) Excellency (HE) Most Excellent Most Illustrious Hochgeboren Hochwohlgeboren Wohlgeboren Much Honoured (The Much Hon.) Milord (Millourt) Antiquity Ancient Rome Pater Patriae Augustus Sebastos Dominus Georgia Mepe Middle Ages Imperial and Royal Highness (HI&RH) Imperial Highness (HIH) Royal Highness (HRH) Grand Ducal Highness (HGDH) Highness (HH) Ducal Serene Highness (HDSH) Serene Highness (HSH) Serenity (HS) Illustrious Highness (HIll.H) Grace (HG) Excellency (HE) Specific culture Don Senhor Republic Most Serene Republic Asian Baghatur Duli Yang Maha Mulia Great king Khan Khagan King of Kings Raja Maharaja Mikado Shah Padishah Shogun Son of Heaven Islamic Agha Agha Khan Effendi Emir Amir al-Mu'minin Hadra A'la-Hazrat Khalifa Malik Mawla Sayyid Sahib Sahib-ul-Ma'ali Sharif Sheikh Sultanic Highness Countries France Georgia Netherlands Portugal Serbia Sweden United Kingdom Canada Scotland See also By the Grace of God Divine right of kings Defender of the Faith (Fidei defensor) Defender of the Holy Sepulchre Great Catholic Monarch List of current sovereign monarchs List of current constituent monarchs Protector Sacred king Translatio imperii Victory title Wikipedia:WikiProject Royalty and Nobility

1. **[^](#cite_ref-31)** *English*. p. 1. {{[cite news](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Template:Cite_news)}}: Missing or empty |title= ([help](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Help:CS1_errors#citation_missing_title))

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Adapted from the Wikipedia article [Excellency](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Excellency) by Wikipedia contributors ([contributor history](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Excellency?action=history)). Available under [Creative Commons Attribution-ShareAlike 4.0 International](https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-sa/4.0/). Changes may have been made.