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Non-sexist language: More important than difficult

6/7/2020

3 Comments

 
Wrapping up a recent article, I typed the word middleman. Then I paused, because it’s sexist. But, I wondered, does anyone say middleperson? 

I googled it. Style manuals weren’t of much help, but no shortage of indignant armchair commentators expressed indignation at the very suggestion, assuring the world there’s nothing sexist about -man.

Every one of said armchair commentators was male.

In the end, my reasoned, professional opinion was: Screw it. I’m going with middleperson. We are now well past the article’s publication, and not one reader has protested. 

Getting sexism out of language is more important than it is difficult.
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—Steve Cuno
3 Comments
Shana Hopperstead
6/7/2020 09:15:39 pm

Well said, Steve! It is important and takes intentional focus to break old habits. I am still trying to break my use of “you guys” in group conversations. Thanks for raising my awareness!

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Craig Wilson
6/8/2020 09:58:36 am

Then there' the, how do I avoid the he/she, his/her slash writing. We need a nice, neutral but polite pronoun without being so non-personal as it/it's. And can't do the they/their because most times not plural. As always, man, thanks for your wisdom.

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Steve
6/8/2020 04:30:33 pm

Excellent question, Craig. (Also, good to hear from you.) I offer one answer in today’s post.

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