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madam vs ma'am

Both 'madam' and 'ma'am' are correct terms used to address or refer to a woman politely. The choice between them depends on the formality of the situation or personal preference.

Last updated: March 08, 2024 • 1155 views

madam

The term 'madam' is a polite and formal way to address or refer to a woman.

It is used in formal settings or when showing respect to a woman. It is often used in written correspondence or in professional environments.

Examples:

  • Good evening, madam. How may I assist you?
  • Madam President, I would like to present the proposal.
  • Dear Madam, we appreciate your feedback on the matter.
  • The letter was addressed to Madam Smith.
  • Madam, your presence is requested at the meeting.
  • We can override, madam president.
  • But madam president, I take full responsibility.
  • Dear madam, a fantasy is no alibi.
  • You continue to underestimate my capabilities, madam.
  • The cathedral just struck five, madam.
  • Everything regarding witches concerns me, madam.
  • Kalpana isn't "madam".
  • We just want to see Kalpana madam.
  • I was outraged, madam, to hear of your misadventure.
  • We're standing down, madam president.
  • Pick up the document, madam president.
  • I'm sorry to interrupt, madam president,but I need to speak with you.
  • You don't have to explain yourself to me, madam president.
  • I take orders only from Mark Antony, madam.
  • He's donating his liver, madam.
  • They all go to saving lives, madam.
  • It's not that easy, madam president.
  • Please, madam, you have to leave.
  • It was a pleasure, madam.
  • That key, madam, buys my silence.

Alternatives:

  • ma'am
  • Mrs.
  • Ms.
  • Miss
  • Lady

ma'am

The term 'ma'am' is a polite and informal way to address or refer to a woman.

It is commonly used in everyday interactions or in casual settings to show respect to a woman. It is often used in spoken language.

Examples:

  • Excuse me, ma'am, do you have a moment to spare?
  • Ma'am, your order is ready for pickup.
  • Thank you, ma'am, for your assistance.
  • Ma'am, may I ask you a question?
  • Ma'am, please wait for your turn.
  • In British English, ma'am has become uncommon, although it must be used when addressing the queen more than once: after first addressing her as Your ...
  • See ma'am defined for English-language learners .... "Yes, ma'am" is a polite way of addressing a woman, which very much reflects respect towards her.
  • The term Ma'am is often coupled with the word No, to create the phrase "No Ma' am", which flows off the tounge very well if you have a Southern US accent.
  • (in Britain) a term used in addressing the queen or a royal princess. Origin of ma' am. Expand. 1660-1670. 1660-70; by contraction. Dictionary.com Unabridged

Alternatives:

  • madam
  • Mrs.
  • Ms.
  • Miss
  • Lady

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