This is the difference between being a lady or a miss.

Where does the life of a young lady end and that of a lady begin? The discussion is eternal, there are those who assume that being a young lady is linked to virginity, others believe that it is related to marital status and some prefer to refer to the moment when you become a mother.

Initially, it was customary for men to ask a woman if she was “ma’am” or “miss” to determine her marital status.

So, if I am 50 years old but never married, am I a lady?

If we look for the definition of the word lady, there are many interpretations that can give us an indication of its current use.

For example, the etymology of lady comes from seniōrem, which means older. Today the term refers to an age distinction, which remains derogatory and confusing.

To help us solve the enigma, if we answer yes to these questions it means (according to the definitions of the RAE) that we are mature ladies.

1. Are you a wife or woman?
2. Do you have a servant to serve you?
3. Are you respectable or of a certain social category?
4. Do you show dignity in your appearance?
5. Are you superior in age, dignity or in any position?
6. Do you govern in any specific area?
7. Are you a saint?
8. Do you have a noble title?

Apparently we are all ladies.

Both in English with the Ms., and in French where there is the right to choose your appeal, the sexist connotation to distinguish one woman from another has been lost.

There is no word that distinguishes us, as if we had a trademark registration or an expiration date.

Don’t let anyone ask you again: Madam or Miss? In order to determine your sexual, civil or chronological situation.