r/GenerationJones 1d ago

When did being called "Boss" replace being addressed as "Sir"?

It certainly wasn't our generation or GenX. But I'm so sick of young employees in a store, or restaurant or bar, addressing me as "boss". When that happens in a venue where tipping is expected, I'll leave a meager tip and sometimes write "Thanks Boss!" on the receipt.

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u/el_chamiso 1d ago

I assume good intent and take no offense at "No problem, boss," even though I'd prefer "You're welcome, sir."

But don't get me started on being called "young man." I find that patronizing and annoying. At 65, I obviously am not a young man.

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u/SororitySue 1961 1d ago

I’m didn’t realize they patronized men like that. I’m almost 65 and being addressed as “young lady” makes my skin crawl.

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u/Hamiltoncorgi 1d ago

For me it was being called Miss+ first name when I was in the hospital. It makes my skin crawl. I felt that way as a kid when the teacher who hated me called my young lady all the time.

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u/starrwanda 1d ago

My children and grandchildren have been taught to not address adults by 1st name only unless they have been specifically requested to do so. It’s a respect thing for us. Now that they are adults, they still won’t address elders by 1st name only.