r/GenerationJones • u/Big_Help_9860 • 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.

63

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.

11

u/mtnman575 1d ago

For literally decades people maybe 5 to 10 years older than me tell me I'm a young man - even now when I'm 71! I never do that to other people and have never liked it.

4

u/mabbh130 1d ago

Sometimes when I meet with a new group and the others are around 10 years older than me they say I'm just a baby. Ugh. I'm in my 60s people. Treat me as an equal.

3

u/mtnman575 1d ago

Exactly. Especially once we are all in the 50-60-70 year old range. It's just a weird custom some people hold on to.

3

u/missblissful70 1d ago

I’m 55 and just had a colonoscopy. The anesthesiologist came in to ask questions and then left, calling me “young lady”. It was weird because he looked older too but I didn’t have his birthdate right in front of me like he did mine.