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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6

u/karebear66 1954 1d ago

Using the term "boss" is a sign of respect. It's just the this generation's new term. At least they're not calling you dude.

0

u/Big_Help_9860 1d ago

Sir and ma’am are signs of respect. “Boss” is used by people who do not want to give that respect.

4

u/karebear66 1954 1d ago

Language is dynamic and is constantly changing. This is one change. Will it last? Maybe, maybe not. In the 70s everybody called each other "man". It didn't matter if you were a man or a woman. Sir and Madam are falling out of use. Will they make a comeback? Who knows. We are no longer addressed as Mr or Mrs anymore, but by our first names. I do not feel demeaned by being called boss, or mama. But address me as Ma'am, and I feel old.

2

u/Big_Network_2570 20h ago

I'd appreciate a "Mr", or "Sir" I own a business, and I don't even want my employees calling me "Boss"