Addressing a doctor as "Dr." is a common and respectful practice in many cultures and professional settings. It is a formal way of addressing someone with a doctoral degree, regardless of their field of expertise. The use of "doc" or "doktor" can also be acceptable in more informal situations, but "Dr." is generally considered the most appropriate and respectful form of address in professional settings.
Using "Dr." acknowledges the time, effort, and dedication it takes to earn a doctoral degree and recognizes the individual's expertise and qualifications. It is a way of showing respect for their professional accomplishments.
Whether using "Dr." is considered pretentious or respectful can vary based on the context and individual perspectives. Some people might find it pretentious if someone insists on being referred to as "Dr." in non-professional settings or situations where a more casual tone is appropriate. On the other hand, others may view it as a simple and respectful form of address, acknowledging the person's educational achievements and professional status.
Ultimately, the key is to be mindful of the context and the preferences of the individual doctor. If they prefer to be addressed as "Dr.," it is courteous to do so, especially in professional or formal situations. If they are more comfortable with "doc" or "doktor" in informal settings, then that form of address can be used appropriately.
In summary, addressing a doctor as "Dr." is generally considered respectful and is commonly used in formal and professional settings. However, using other forms of address like "doc" or "doktor" may be acceptable in more informal situations, as long as it aligns with the doctor's preferences and the context of the interaction. Being respectful of their title and professional achievements is essential in all situations.