What to call female humans 20 yrs old or over

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You all have raised a good point. Frieslander, did you mean direct address ("How was your tea, Miss/Ma'am?", or third-party reference ("Those women over there look like they're having fun!")?

When I responded, I had assumed third-party reference.

If she's an older woman attracted to younger men, she is often called a cougar.

And if it's an older man attracted to a younger man, he is called a Nittany Lion.

I've heard a number of older men address younger women as "Honey". Some can do it without giving the impression of being condescending, but I think most come across as very condescending.

I used to have a boss who would intentionally address younger men as "Honey" to put them down. That was the only boss I ever had who I really truly hated.

Sexkitten!

I like Ma'am and Ms.

Although usually i get Miss, Missy, Sweety, Darling, Darl, Cutie.

Is there a difference between Ms and Miss, pronunciation-wise?

i would call them whatever their name is, otherwise i would just make sure they know i am talking to them if i did not know their name.

i do not have any reason to refer to people i am talking to in a third person way, and so i am never presented with the dilemma you propose.

Women, ladies..

When addressing someone Miss, Ma'am, Ms or so.

I really find it strange when some young male comes to me and my girlfriends saying "hi guys!"

It really depends on the context, and the situation.

I am a woman, and that's what I am.

If you ask me how a colleague should call me, I would say by my name. A bf?, by my name or "my woman" or "my girl", as I find that sexy, even though I am not his. Being called Ma'am makes me cringe, as it is what they call the Queen here. Chick, is OK, depending on who is saying it, obviously. I don't take offence regardless, as someone can call me a b***h in a joking way and make me laugh, whereas someone else may say, "Madam" and be quite insulting with their tone. (although the word Madam always reminds me of those old ladies in brothels )

P.S. Loved the "Meow" comment too and it made me chuckle!