Sexism In Everyday Language Essay

Eliminating Derogatory Labels and Sexism in Everyday Language Common phrases used in everyday language convey messages, intended or not, that label and degrade women, people of marginalized ethnic groups, and people of varying sexual orientations. The purpose of this short paper will be to highlight these phrases and their common usage, as well as to illustrate how eliminating these derogatory phrases is an effective tool in ending the discrimination of members of these groups. Its main focus will be on derogatory gender labeling; however its theoretical application can effect changes in the marginalization of all people. It is with great optimism that the author suggests that by eliminating the use of this language, instead replacing it with a more positive and gender-neutral language, an egalitarian society can be achieved. Some commonly used phrases have definite negative subliminal implications. One example of this is the term “housewife”. Women who do not have salary earning jobs outside of their homes are often given this title. The term implies that women who do not earn a salary for the many jobs that they do, do not work. The work they do in the home, such as cooking, cleaning, and child-rearing are completely devalued underneath this label, as in many cases, the title is preceded by

For that to be true, then its opposite must also be possible. If gender-neutral language and positive labels are used to replace sexist language, a system of equality can be established where women are more highly regarded and thus treated differently by men, and by other women. Rather than using inherently male language and language that is meant to degrade women, positive phrases and labels of respect have the power to change gender perceptions and cultural