Originally Posted by SykkBoy2

As *somewhat* of a gentleman, I often use terms of endearment when I'm at the store, a restaurant, etc.

I often say something like "thanks, honey" or "thank you, darlin'" I do it as a way of just being nice...but lately I've found a few waitresses and retail staff that find these terms offensive or act like I've just called them bitches...

A female friend explained to me that some women feel you're talking down to them when using these kinds of terms...

Is calling someone honey, sweetie, darlin', etc. really that offensive?
It's not like I'm calling them snookums or sugar tits...or giving them a slap on the ass. I don't leer at them as I say it.

Does this make me an insensitive prick that is disrespectful towards women? Doesn't "ma'am" sound kind of condescending sometimes?