Communicating Sensitively

“Gender Sensitivity in Communication is crucial to building better relationships”

Use of Gender Inclusive Language

Equality is achieved
Women and through overall
gender balance and
Men are parallel word choices.
equal
In communication,
we eliminate terms
that stereotype,
exclude or demean
women.

1. False Generics
Generics are nouns and pronouns intended to be used for both men and women.

Avoid: men Avoid: forefathers

Do use: persons, individuals, Do use: ancestors
people

2. Man- compounds
Avoid using the word “man” which occurs in compounds as prefix or as a suffix.

Avoid: Man-made Avoid: manpower

Do use: handmade, Do use: human resources,
manufacturer labor force, personnel

3. Occupational Titles
Avoid using occupational terns or jobs titles which often convey assumed gender or
class norms.

Avoid: chairman Avoid: salesman

Do use: chair, head, Do use: sales clerk, sales
chairperson, convener representative, salesperson
4. Stereotypes
Are generalized and fixed images of people belonging to a particular group formed
by isolating or exaggerating certain features, or by oversimplifying and
underestimate individuals’ distinct identities.

Don’t use the terms “girls”, Don’t say “lady

“gals”, “ladies”, to adult receptionist”, woman
women director”, “woman driver”

5. Symmetric Language
Use symmetric or parallel language when referring to different sexes at the same time.

To avoid: To use:
Men and Ladies Men and Women, or Women and Man
Men and Wife Husband and Wife, or Wife and Husband
Dr. Jim Taylor and his assistant Mary Dr. Jim Taylor and his assistant Mary Jones
Mr. Smith and Jane Mr. Smith and Ms. Elliot
“Always remember that being gender inclusive in communication paves way to being an
effective and successful Augustinian communicator.”