(This post was last modified: 12-15-2016, 02:33 AM by Michael P.
Edit Reason: grammar
)
Interesting post, grim.
Language is an evolving thing. While the original meaning of gentleman did apply to the landed gentry, or those to the manor born, it has evolved to mean a man of good manners, perhaps one who has learned those manners from mimicking those of the 'upper class'.
It's as if someone used the word 'awful' in the context that some product or service (or person's behavior) was not good.
Awful, as it has come to be used, connotes something that is very bad. But its original meaning was something that was 'full of awe', something worthy of reverence.
So, I think we know as we approach 2017 what is meant in the vast majority of cases when someone uses the word 'gentleman' or 'awful'.
Back in New York, in the old neighborhood, if you referred to certain fellows as gentleman, you'd get a swift punch. Call the same fellow a 'stand-up guy', and he'd be flattered.
What some have done by buying something on BST with the intention of flipping it for profit is within the letter of the Forum rules. But it's not something a stand-up guy would do.