Ms vs. Miss, What Are the Differences?

The main difference between Miss and Ms. when referring to a woman is that Miss indicates that the woman is not married, while Ms. has nothing to do with whether the woman is married or not.

The title of Miss began in the 17^th century and referred to any woman who was not married. It actually came from the word Mistress. While the use of Ms. had its origins long ago, it became more popular in the 20^th century. The women’s movement worked hard to create equality for women and it was determined that Ms. was the best connotation for every woman.

The term Ms. was used more in the 1970s than ever before. It has since dropped off as many women who used the term seemed to be more identified as a “women’s libber” rather than as married or single. It is rare that the term Ms. is used in today’s society, yet on some occasions such as addressing a proper invitation, it can be used if you are not sure if the women is married or not.

In more recent years, the term Miss has taken on another meaning; when a woman enters into a beauty contest, she is referred to as Miss…followed by the state she is from. The winners of other types of beauty contest are referred to as Miss America or Miss Universe.

If you are not sure whether a woman is married or single, you can still address her as Ms. This title would be fitting for a woman who is single, married, divorced, or widowed. The title of Miss is clearly for women who are not married.