“Madam” vs. “Ma'am”: What’s the Difference?
Jul 25, 2023
Engram
The difference between “madam” and “ma'am”
- "Ma'am" is a contracted or abbreviated form of "madam" with the apostrophe in "ma'am" representing the omitted "d."
- "Madam" is often used in more formal or professional settings, while "ma'am" is used in both formal and informal settings.
- "Madam" is considered traditional, and "ma'am" is commonly used in the Southern United States.
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What is the definition of “madam” and “ma'am”?
Madam
- "Madam" is a formal term of address used to refer to a woman in authority or a married woman.
- It can be used in professional settings such as in addressing a teacher or lecturer.
- It can also be used as a polite and respectful way of addressing an adult woman of any age.
Ma'am
- "Ma'am" is a contraction of "madam" and is used as an abbreviated form of the term.
- It is also a polite and respectful way of addressing a woman, particularly in the Southern United States.
- It can be used in formal and casual settings, such as when addressing a woman in a customer service interaction or in a military setting.
Which is the more popular variant on the Internet?
“Madam” is the more popular variant on the web.
More popular
Madam
80,900,000 results on the web
Examples
- Excuse me, madam. Do you have a moment to spare for a survey?
- Madam, your dress is absolutely stunning!
- Yes, madam. I will make sure to pass on your message to the manager.
Ma'am
28,400,000 results on the web
Examples
- Ma'am, can you please lower your voice? This is a library.
- Thank you for your service, ma'am. Your contribution has not gone unnoticed.
- I'm sorry, ma'am. We don't have any tables available for another hour.
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