Is it weird of me to refer people online (or even strangers in real life) as Uncles/Sir or Aunt (y)/Ma'am? Generally to people elder than late 20's?

[Apulu_Imback]

You must have noticed that I call elder people to me as Uncle, Aunt. If they are not the Frank type then I call them as Sir, Ma'am. Is it weird to call people online as Uncle or Aunt? Because generally they became Uncle or Aunt figure to me once they are close to me. My cousin was going through my account here and noticed this. He laughed and said it was weird.

To those whom I referred as Uncle or Aunt, how do you feel about it?

[skyeee_]

most people around the world use 'uncle' and 'aunty' for their relatives so i think they'd be puzzled when someone online uses that 💀 however, sir or maam is a gesture of respect so i dont see anything wrong or weird with it

[Apulu_Imback]

I just call every elder stranger as Uncle or Aunty lol. Like I call that school cleaning lady as Aunty. And all. Yeah what if someone thought I'm their nephew lol

[bowenw]

Where I live in North America, it's usually only true blood-related aunts and uncles that are called that, or someone that is like an uncle or aunt.

[Apulu_Imback]

Over here you can call Uncle or Aunty to every elder stranger too

[bowenw]

So you're not doing anything weird.

[bowenw]

Thank you for the MHO. 😊

[NathanDavis]

that seems unusual to me, to be called uncle by someone I am not relatives with

sir just sounds funny... like a movie from the 1920's lol

[Apulu_Imback]

I see

[Mr_Peterson]

Personally I would prefer sir if you didn't know my name, but as you do, Mr Peterson.

[Graci_e]

It’s not the 1800s. Are you sure you’re 15?

[Apulu_Imback]

Okay Mr Peterson. As you wish.

[Cubus]

Well, in my country ww call everyone we are not close with mr/mrs. Just a culture thing I guess

[Apulu_Imback]

I'm just not used with Mr, Miss and all. It feels way too formal for me. Like I'm talking to any business partner.

[Still-alive]

Maybe a little bit but its also a bit endearing to coming from you especially. i don't mind really

[Apulu_Imback]

Weird but endearing? I don't get it lol

[Still-alive]

Yeah you got a good personality so it just comes across as endearing to me.

[Apulu_Imback]

Glad you think so

[Anonymous]

No, it is a sign of respect.