chrisb Posted March 30, 2007 Share Posted March 30, 2007 I hit a bit of a poser today - I was phoning up the office of my local plumber to confirm the date for our next visit when they are coming to do some work when I realised I had no idea how to address the very efficient and pleasant lady on the other end. Her voice didn't give any clue as to age - so what should I choose - Madame? Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Dick Smith Posted March 30, 2007 Share Posted March 30, 2007 Ask her. "Bonjour Madame - (then lifiting the voice) mademoiselle?" then when she replies utter a little half-chuckle, as though you find her marital/age state the most charming thing you have heard all day. Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Blanche Neige Posted March 30, 2007 Share Posted March 30, 2007 If in doubt I would plump for Madame everytime. Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
chrisb Posted April 1, 2007 Author Share Posted April 1, 2007 Thanks both - though I think Dick's suggestion might get me in trouble from Mrs CJ if she overheard! Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Coco Posted April 4, 2007 Share Posted April 4, 2007 I was told sometime in the distant past that anyone over the age of 25 should be referred to as Madame. I know that's difficult to tell over the phone but in my experience of shop assistants, supermarket cashiers, hairdressers etc, they all seem to be sporting wedding rings from the age of about 20, so perhaps that would be the safest bet - or perhaps they just look 20 to be these days (like policemen and doctors [:D]) Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
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