Why do women not like to be called ma’am?

[dolemite89]

if i’m addressing women that are strangers in public i usually try to say “ms.” but if i say ma’am to a lady under 50 years old I sometimes get an upset or annoyed look back from them. Is it really that big of deal?

[whereismyjohnny]

I don't like formal titles in general tbh. I get shy when somebody (especially someone a lot older than me) addresses me in a formal way. On the other hand, I always use titles when I'm speaking to someone older than me or people I don't know (I tend to use it even for people who are not a lot older than me, and I'm like why am I this way lol).

[WonderBell99]

Well, it makes me sound older than what I really am?

I don’t mind it when a guy calls me “Ma’am”, it implies that he has manners, but still.. I’ve only heard people refer to authority figures/old people as Mam/Sir, lol. Sometimes it’s just cute though. Like the guy has manners and he’s trying to be a gentleman by being polite

[ArrowheadSW]

Back when I used to work with the public, I avoided using either "Ms." or "Ma'am" for that reason... LOL... I must have found some way around it.

[MountAverage]

You're asking why women who aren't old don't like to be adressed as if they're old? Are you dumb or something?

[beebella]

Y'know, someone actually called me that for the first time a few months ago and I was elated because, for once, someone didn't think I was a fucking child. 😂

[dolemite89]

you’re the only woman that actually wants people to think she’s older 🤣

[beebella]

I just want people to think I'm an adult. 😭

[Tiptoetamm]

I didn't mind it. I know their just trying to show respect.

[ShaTTeredMasterpeace]

It doesn't really bother me. If anything it shows that the person has manners.

[Isismoonie]

I don’t like it because it makes me feel old and like I’m some sort of oppressing person.

[RobT312]

For the same reason guys don’t like being called sir.
it sounds old, and although polite , it doesn’t feel complimentary

[Foxeyes]

Makes you sound like your old I don't know I'm not having it either lol 😆

[wittymilf]

It’s not a term used in nz

[TacosRAwesome]

Ma' am is old ladies.

[WhitneySnow]

Ma’am is something you say to old people

[SnakeBoop]

Ma'am implies age.

[msc545]

Makes them sound old.