gender neutral language

USAGE SUMMARY

"gender neutral language" is a correct and usable phrase in written English.
It refers to language that does not show preference or bias towards a particular gender and includes words and phrases that are inclusive of all genders. Example: The company's new policy requires the use of gender neutral language in all official documents and communications.

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

2 human-written examples

We should be looking at gender neutral language for our legislation too".

The Guardian

Eileen Brown: "Having gender neutral language on a job description might adjust the balance and get more female applicants".

The Guardian

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

57 human-written examples

Current proposals for change affect only the articles of the Civil Code that pertain to marriage in gendered language, and propose "altering the words from 'male' and 'female' to gender-neutral language," Gay Star News reported.

The New York Times

"We are in the process of pulling together a style guide, for issues around when we use gendered language, when we use transgender-inclusive language, and when we use gender-neutral language," she says.

Huffington Post

Recruiters need to commit to gender-neutral language and non-gender specific jobs.

The Guardian

Starting this year, the city will be required to use gender-neutral language in its documents.

The New York Times

Pete Seeger's proposal for gender-neutral language, from a 1974 letter to Ms. magazine.

The New Yorker

Moreover, he noted, the text of the act uses gender-neutral language, like saying "another person" instead of "a woman".

The New York Times

Published last Monday, the Stern Review sets a new benchmark in discussions of rape and sexual assault by describing victims in gender-neutral language.

The Guardian - Opinion

They include the adoption of gender-neutral language and the provision of gender-neutral restrooms, as well as training and education.

The Guardian

THIS brings to mind a new local law that the mayor signed last week, requiring "gender-neutral language" in all city laws and documents.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When drafting documents or communications, actively replace gendered terms with their neutral equivalents (e.g., use "chairperson" instead of "chairman").

Common error

Avoid defaulting to "he/him/his" when the gender is unknown or irrelevant. Instead, use "they/them/their" or rephrase the sentence to eliminate the need for a pronoun.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "gender neutral language" functions as a descriptor, characterizing a style of communication or writing. Ludwig examples indicate its use in contexts like legislation, job descriptions, and general communication guidelines. Ludwig AI confirms it as a correct and usable phrase.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

50%

Science

50%

Formal & Business

0%

Less common in

Academia

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Wiki

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

"Gender neutral language" is a phrase used to describe language that doesn't favor any specific gender and is inclusive of all gender identities. Ludwig AI confirms its correctness and usability. It's very common, particularly in News & Media and Science contexts. When writing, it's essential to replace gendered terms with neutral alternatives and avoid defaulting to specific pronouns when the gender is unknown. Alternatives include "inclusive language" and "unbiased language". By using "gender neutral language", you promote inclusivity and respect in your communications.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

gender-inclusive language

Specifically highlights the inclusion of all gender identities.

gender-equitable language

Similar to gender-fair language, emphasizing equity.

gender-fair language

Highlights fairness and equality in linguistic representation.

inclusive language

Broader term referring to language that avoids exclusion of any group.

non-sexist language

Emphasizes the avoidance of sexism in communication.

unbiased language

Focuses on the absence of prejudice in word choice.

egalitarian language

Focuses on promoting equality between genders through language.

language of equality

Shifts focus to the principle of equality conveyed through language.

un-gendered language

Highlights the removal of gender markers from language.

gender-blind language

Implies that language should not acknowledge gender.

FAQs

How to use "gender neutral language" in a sentence?

You can use "gender neutral language" to describe the characteristics of a text or communication style, as in "The company policy requires the use of "gender neutral language" in all official documents".

What can I say instead of "gender neutral language"?

You can use alternatives like "inclusive language", "unbiased language", or "gender-inclusive language" depending on the specific context.

Which is correct, "gender neutral language" or "sex neutral language"?

"Gender neutral language" is generally preferred as it encompasses a broader understanding of gender beyond biological sex. While "sex neutral language" is sometimes used, it can be less inclusive.

Why is using "gender neutral language" important?

Using "gender neutral language" promotes inclusivity and avoids reinforcing stereotypes. It ensures that all individuals, regardless of their gender identity, feel respected and represented in communication.