Spanish term (edited): Do�a

To show respect, we have to use the surname in English. Still in some parts of southern United States, a woman may be called "Miss Lucy," for example, even if she is married. However, this usage is quaint and it's disappearing. In some parts of the U.S., it would sound really strange, so this form is better avoided.

When no name is used, an domestic employee in some parts of the U.S. might say, "Shall I put it here, Ma'am?" On the other hand, "Ma'am, shall I put it here?" would be more like an attempt to get the person's attention. A salesclerk might say, "Here's your change, Ma'am." If she was looking at the person, she would not say "Ma'am, here's your change."