Does being a woman automatically make one a lady?

Question

The word "lady" is often used interchangeably with "woman" regardless of the character of the person.

Do you do that? If so, is it because the word lady is easier to say? Or, is it because you believe that all women are "ladies" by virtue of their gender? (e.g. "bag lady")

Likewise, does being male automatically make one a gentleman?

Are we just lazy?

When women go the bathroom it is referred (almost 100%) as the "ladies' room", whereas men go to the "men's room"?

Is the difference that the words "ladies" and "men" are simply easier to say than "women" and "gentlemen"?

Answer 1

Obviously, no for both genders.

I try to be consistent in using ladies and gentlemen or men and women, so as not to insult anyone.

But, you get what you demand. That is. . .

Women expect and demand politeness and courtesy -- and get it. Men can be treated like crap and not complain much.

So, we are socialized to politely assume women are ladies regardless of their behavior. Men, don't demand or get that courtesy.

Your example: A WOMAN that lives on the street is called a "bag LADY." A MAN is called "a BUM."

Answer 2

In my definition a woman or man is a gender identifier.
A lady or gentleman is a way they conduct themselves.
Oh course, if they act like irresponsible fools, there are plenty of other names that can be used.
One thing that makes my yell at the television is if I am watching a show about one of these "low lifers" (see there's one) in society being referred to as "this or that gentleman".
As for restrooms, I think it's a guy thing. It could be called a "John" and they don't care.

Answer 3

lady is a genetic term
like lady and the tramp
lady of the lamp
lady is no lady just a term
not all women are real ladies...some are common and cheap
and yet we call the ladies of the night?
gentlemen clubs (in US ..strip joints) are not for real gentleman.
I was drinking one evening with my boss and I forgot to open a door for a women in the back seat...(two door American sedan) and she said"Paul you are no gentleman" well, just because i forgot to open a bloody door.? well that is the way people judge things..they call her Lady Di..but was she a real lady? this is a judge mental thing and like beauty //its up to the beholder.

Answer 4

No! A true lady is never abusive, and only resorts to the use of force in extreme situations; she is well mannered and considerate of others, and it appears that there are fewer and fewer with the passing years, such is the degeneration in values, generally.

Answer 5

One should always treat a woman as a lady, until she proves herself to be otherwise. The same holds true with a man.

Answer 6

The only thing that is automatic, is our breath!

To be a lady and a gentleman is a big issue and needs much talent, deep seated kindness, culture.

Answer 7

All Females grow up to be Women, but not all Women are Ladies.

Being a Lady is defined by having good manners.
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All Males grow up to be Men, but not all Men are Gentlemen. Again, it all has to do with having good manners.

Answer 8

No, being a lady takes talent and patience. A woman is just a grown up version of a girl.

Answer 9

All the coinage of women & lady are of bygone days when the virtue & virginity were of importance.Today in the present world all girls are women and ladies.

Answer 10

just a word
some men call their women Old Lady
just what they are taught
My love is our word of choice here
happy valentines day