Practical tools (checklists and summary tables)
To ensure that you've used ‘gender-savvy’ language in your writing, try asking yourself the following questions:
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Do you recognise stereotypes and avoid repeating them through your language?
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Do you actively seek ways of being inclusive to both women and men?
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Does your language reflect the idea that women, men and those of a non-binary gender are independent persons of equal value, dignity, integrity and respect?
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When using gender-neutral language, have you considered whether there might be hidden gender elements to the discussion that mean you should be using gender-sensitive language instead?
Tip! Policymakers and law-makers should almost always try to use gender-sensitive language, rather than gender-neutral language. -
Do you avoid terms that may be patronising or belittling to one gender?
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Would the adjectives that you use to describe one gender be equally applicable to another gender?
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Did you check your document for gender-biased language?
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Have you avoided describing women solely in relation to men?
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Do you avoid using ‘man’ or ‘he’ to describe the experiences of everyone?
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When describing professional occupations, have you used gender-neutral terms, such as chair, spokesperson and headteacher?
If you answered yes to all of the above, the chances are your language is free of gender bias.