Best reply please
I am told people who give money should be addressed as boss- cum- friend. I know my friend is asking money. What is the best reply to this?
sanjay
Expert
1 answer 
"Boss" in this context is an Indian English usage. In British English and American English, calling someone "boss" -- unless they are, literally, your supervisor on the job -- can be highly insulting.
I understand that in Indian English, "boss" is meant as a term of familiar respect. It dates to the British Colonial period (and in America, to slavery and the Jim Crow era). As a term of respect, "boss" was used originally by social inferiors to address their superiors -- not their peers. Unfortunately, in BrE and AmE, it still carries the inferior/superior sense. To call an American "boss" outside of the workplace, is to issue a veiled insult. You are suggesting that the "boss" has an unwarranted attitude of condescending superiority toward you.
In America, asking for money does not change the form of address. If this is between friends, then polite familiarity is used -- first names. If it is not between friends, then formal address is used -- honorific title + last name.
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answered Jul 19 '12 at 15:06
Jeff Pribyl
Grammarly Fellow
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The problem with him is that he lives on others money. He praises everyone when he wants some financial help. In that case, how do you respond to him, sir? Thank you in advance.
Sometimes, the best response is to ignore the request. Go one as if you didn't hear or see the request. You may have heard the phrase, "I won't dignify that with a response."
Other times, you have to respond. A simple, "I can't help you at this time" will do. Don't explain further. Change the subject and move on.
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My friend sent me this message.
– sanjay – Jul 19 '12 at 14:17 add comment