Story perspectives

Miss Manners Tackles RSVP Confusion and E-Card Etiquette

1/3/2026

Summary

Miss Manners Advises Etiquette

Miss Manners addressed two reader questions about etiquette, focusing on a confusing RSVP process and a frosty administrator's email.
Miss Manners advised that apologizing for not responding is important even when instructions are unclear.
Miss Manners stated that e-cards are acceptable and that personal, sincere gratitude remains essential.
Together, the inquiries illustrate ongoing challenges in communication and etiquette.

Summary

Miss Manners Recommends Terminology

Miss Manners advised against using "pillow pal" and recommended "partner" as the term for an established unmarried couple.
The guidance responded to a 56-year-old reader asking whether to use "girlfriend" or "pillow pal" when introducing a significant other.
The advice highlights evolving language in social relationships and the importance of respectful terminology.
The example shows how language choices can shape how a significant other is framed during introductions.

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Miss Manners Advises Etiquette

Miss Manners addressed two reader questions about etiquette, focusing on a confusing RSVP process and a frosty administrator's email.
Miss Manners advised that apologizing for not responding is important even when instructions are unclear.
Miss Manners stated that e-cards are acceptable and that personal, sincere gratitude remains essential.
Together, the inquiries illustrate ongoing challenges in communication and etiquette.

1 / 2