gendered language

USAGE SUMMARY

"gendered language" is correct and usable in written English. You can use it when discussing language that reflects or reinforces gender roles or stereotypes. An example: "The use of gendered language in job descriptions can discourage applicants of certain genders." Alternative expressions include "gender-specific language" and "sexist language."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

40 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

Writers and editors need to consider the implications of gendered language and the importance of neutral pronouns.

The New Yorker

University halls can be extremely anxiety-provoking due to lad culture, and issues around transphobia and gendered language.

The Guardian

There was a light-bulb moment when I picked up a book by Deborah Cameron for an essay about gendered language.

The Guardian

We fight against bullying and try to encourage young people to be verbally kind to each other in a general sense; so why are we horrified to be asked to think about the way we use gendered language?

Independent

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

20 human-written examples

For example, speakers of gendered languages, like Spanish, in which all nouns are either masculine or feminine, actually seem to think about objects differently depending on whether the language treats them as masculine or feminine; those conceptual differences are maintained even when they learn a second, non-gendered language, like English.

The New Yorker

"We use non-gendered language when we talk about bodies, sexuality, gender, etc.," she says.

Huffington Post

Some people might not understand who you are talking about if you are using non-gendered language when referring to a specific person.

Huffington Post

"Some of the writers on the team implement non-gendered language by saying things like, 'people with a uterus,' which is one way to do it.

Huffington Post

"The general public doesn't give a second thought to female-gendered language, because it doesn't cross most people's minds that anyone other than women could possibly nurse".

Huffington Post

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When writing, consciously evaluate your word choices to avoid reinforcing stereotypes through "gendered language". Consider alternatives that promote inclusivity and accuracy.

Common error

Avoid defaulting to "he/him" pronouns when referring to a general or unspecified person. Use gender-neutral pronouns like "they/them" or rephrase the sentence to eliminate the need for a pronoun altogether.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "gendered language" functions as a noun phrase, where 'gendered' acts as an adjective modifying 'language'. It identifies a specific type of language. Ludwig AI confirms that this phrase is grammatically correct and usable.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

62%

Science

20%

Wiki

7%

Less common in

Formal & Business

3%

Encyclopedias

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The term "gendered language" is used to describe language that reflects or reinforces gender stereotypes. As Ludwig AI's analysis indicates, the phrase is grammatically correct and commonly used, particularly in News & Media and Scientific contexts. It's important to be aware of potential biases in language and to consider using "gender-neutral alternatives" when appropriate. While not always inherently negative, "gendered language" warrants careful consideration in writing and communication to promote inclusivity and avoid perpetuating harmful stereotypes.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

language reflecting gender stereotypes

This longer phrase explicitly describes language that reinforces preconceived notions about gender roles.

language perpetuating gender bias

This phrase emphasizes the role of language in maintaining unfair or inaccurate views about gender.

sexist language

This term specifically refers to language that discriminates or stereotypes based on sex or gender, carrying a more negative connotation than "gendered language".

gendered terms

This is a shorter way to refer to words or expressions that are specific to one gender.

gender-biased language

This phrase highlights the presence of bias in language related to gender, suggesting a leaning towards one gender over others.

sexed language

This term highlights language related to the biological aspects of sex rather than the social construct of gender.

gender-specific language

This term refers to language tailored to a particular gender, often used in marketing or product descriptions.

gender-neutral language

This phrase refers to language that avoids making assumptions about gender and includes all genders.

inclusive language

This broader term encompasses language that is respectful and considerate of all identities, including gender, race, and sexual orientation.

non-binary language

Refers to language that acknowledges and includes non-binary gender identities.

FAQs

What does "gendered language" mean?

"Gendered language" refers to words or phrases that imply or reinforce stereotypes about genders. It can involve using male or female terms when gender is irrelevant or assuming roles based on gender.

How can I avoid using "gendered language" in my writing?

You can avoid "gendered language" by using gender-neutral pronouns (they/them), choosing inclusive terms (like 'chairperson' instead of 'chairman'), and being mindful of implicit biases in your descriptions.

What are some examples of "gendered language"?

Examples include using "he" as the default pronoun, assuming nurses are female and doctors are male, or describing successful women as 'aggressive'. Consider "gender neutral language" alternatives.

Is it always wrong to use "gendered language"?

Not always. Sometimes, gender is relevant to the context, and using gender-specific language is appropriate. However, it's crucial to be aware of potential biases and avoid unnecessary or stereotypical "gendered language".