An etiquette/manners question! I hope this question is understandable -- if not let me know so I can clarify!

Question

When I'm at work or something, and I don't know a particular man's name when someone is asking me, I'll say "I don't know that gentleman's name" (instead of saying --- man). But, what about if I was referring to a woman. I couldn't say "I don't know that lady's/woman's name". And, I would sound strange saying "madam or young lady (if she isn't older or young). So, in the female case how would I make the address politely and as sophisticatedly as possible?

Answer 1

I don't understand why you couldn't just say "I don't know the woman's/lady's name". There's really no difference is there? Maybe you need to clarify..........

Answer 2

I'd just say I don't know that lady's name. "Lady" just seems so eligent and nice and can be for both young and old women.  

Answer 3

A "lady" is the female equivalent of a "gentleman". So you are perfectly correct to say "that lady's name".

"Woman" corresponds to "man", and as you rightly identify, is less gracious.

"Madam" corresponds to "sir", and you wouldn't say "I don't know that sir's name", so don't say "madam" in that context either.

"Young lady" corresponds to "young gentleman" and can be left out of your vocabulary until you reach seventy or become a butler.

Answer 4

I would feel more comfortable using the word "lady", or 'young lady'.  It has a better sound to it.  

Answer 5

You could always refer to her as "her".

Answer 6

There's nothing wrong with either "lady" or "woman."  I'd probably say "woman" actually.  There's nothing rude about saying: "I don't know her name" or "I don't know that woman's name."

Answer 7

Use 'Lady'. It is always correct whenever addressing or asking about a female that is over 18 or so. If the female is under 18 (or appears so) use 'Young Lady'.