Anonymous wrote:

Anonymous wrote:
Fascinating.

So are words like "thank you" and "please" equally superfluous in a "polite conversation", as you'd call it?

We're obviously from very different places, and northern culture absolutely mystifies me sometimes for its complete lack of civility. Buy y'all don't even realize you're doing it.... bless your hearts.

I think it's polite to call people what they want to be called. Many people don't like to be called ma'am. Doesn't really matter why.

How about, "Hey, Stupid?"

I much prefer ma'am to some unknown person using my first name, which is rude in its familiarity. An acceptable alternative to ma'am would be Ms. Jones or Mrs. Jones.

Interestingly, a few times this week I've had to telephone vendors who provide services to the house (phone, cable) and the automated systems asked me to state my name as I was waiting. When I gave my first name, the person used it when they picked up my call. When I gave "Mrs. Jones", the person completely avoided saying my name. I wonder why the call service people prefer first names to the more appropriate surname?

Anonymous wrote:

Anonymous wrote:

Anonymous wrote:

Anonymous wrote:Why is it exasperating?

Because it tells they don’t do the minimal effort to call you by your name. It shows disrespect.

It is a respectful way to address a woman who looks middle aged or older.

No, it is a polite address for any adult woman. It has nothing to do with middle age. If you're over 18, it is perfectly appropriate to be addressed politely as Ma'am.

It is mostly for women who appear to be middle aged or older.