Gender-neutral language
Gender-neutral language is writing that avoids assuming a person's gender, using inclusive terms such as singular "they" or role-based words instead of gendered pronouns.
Also known as:
Gender-inclusive language, gender-fair language, non-sexist language
What is gender-neutral language?
Gender-neutral language is wording that does not assume or specify a person's gender when gender is not the point. It includes singular "they" in place of "he or she," role-based job titles like "firefighter" instead of "fireman," and group words like "team," "folks" or "everyone" instead of "guys." For example, "Each user can set their own password" works for every reader, while "Each user can set his password" quietly excludes most of the audience.
Gendered: Ask your manager if he can approve the request.
Gender-neutral: Ask your manager if they can approve the request.
Why does gender-neutral language matter?
Gender-neutral language matters because small word choices shape who a piece of writing feels built for. Readers who do not fit a default male assumption can drop off when copy signals that someone else was imagined at the keyboard, and research has documented measurable effects on comprehension and perceived belonging. For brands, cleaning up gendered assumptions is a low-cost way to widen reach and remove friction from the reading experience.
How do you use gender-neutral language?
Pronouns — Use singular "they" when a person's gender is unknown or irrelevant, so "Ask your manager if they can approve the request" rather than "Ask your manager if he can approve the request."
Job titles — Prefer role-based titles such as "chairperson," "firefighter," "server" and "salesperson," rather than "chairman," "fireman," "waitress" and "salesman."
Group address — Swap "guys," "gentlemen" or "ladies" for "everyone," "folks," "team" or "all," so openings and greetings work for any audience.
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