I’m studying when to use “ma’am” and “sir” in conversation. It seems I start off buying a pack of gum as a “ma’am.” But, by the time my transaction is complete, I’m a “hun” or “sweetie.”
Once, when I’d been working up the courage to use “ma’am” and “sir,” I took leave with a “Thank you, ma’am.” But there was a bristle in the air. That was the wrong thing. I think the woman had already called me “sweetie.”
I must now broaden my study of “ma’am” and “sir” to their use in conjunction with terms of endearment.
I suspect there may be variations by gender and perhaps age of conversationalists. So this may get tricky.
Once, when I’d been working up the courage to use “ma’am” and “sir,” I took leave with a “Thank you, ma’am.” But there was a bristle in the air. That was the wrong thing. I think the woman had already called me “sweetie.”
I must now broaden my study of “ma’am” and “sir” to their use in conjunction with terms of endearment.
I suspect there may be variations by gender and perhaps age of conversationalists. So this may get tricky.
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