Let's say I want to call a policeman, or I am in a n-person conversation
involving a policeman and I want a word to refer to the policeman. And let's
say I want a respectful word.

I believe おまわりさん could sound a bit insulting (low rank).  
Should I say 警察さん?  
Is there a more respectful way to call a policeman, who actually might be an
officer?
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2014-09-23T11:55:00.470
18777
2014-09-24T04:45:41.470
2014-09-24T04:45:41.470
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question
word-choice politeness
Respectful way to say "policeman"
I do not think there is anything insulting with お巡りさん: I've definitely heard
it said to koban people to their face by people with no ill-intent.

But it's also a term that specifically refers to koban-type cops (literally
means "person on the beat"). Perhaps not higher-up officers or detectives.

For something more formal and more respectful, how about: 警察官 (police officer)

There's also 警察の職員 (police personnel), but that's really generic and maybe not
what you need in your context.
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2014-09-23T13:51:34.293
18778
2014-09-23T13:51:34.293
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answer