Gender-neutral language
On gender-neutral language
Language influences our attitudes, behaviors, and perceptions. Therefore, equality and equal treatment also manifest in language.
Danish universities recommend the use of inclusive language.
At Health, we support this initiative and aim to avoid the use of gendered terms as much as possible.
Guidelines for gender-neutral language
At Health, we strive to reflect human diversity and promote equality. Therefore, we have developed guidelines for inclusive and gender-neutral language for the entire faculty to use, aiming to avoid gendered terms in both speech and writing.
These guidelines have been approved by the faculty leadership.
How to implement this
Avoid using gendered expressions in both formal and informal contexts when speaking and writing.
Whenever you encounter a gendered expression, consider whether it reinforces a stereotype and if there is a more neutral alternative.
For example, it is more inclusive in texts to use terms like "the employee," "the student," or "the individual" instead of "he" or "she."
Concrete examples of using gender-neutral language
Below are specific examples of how you can use gender-neutral language and make small adjustments to make the language more inclusive. This helps to increase respect for diversity, reduce gender stereotypes, and contribute to greater equality and equity.
Gendered words | Gender-neutral alternatives |
Chairman, vice-chairman and chairmanship | Chair / chairperson, vice-chairperson and chairpersons / chairpersonship |
Mankind | Humankind / humanity |
Freshman | First-year student |
Spokesman | Spokesperson |
Female doctor/director | Doctor/ director |
Male nurse | Nurse |
Businessman | Businessperson |
Manpower | Personnel |
Man hours | Personnel hours |
Postman | Postal worker |
Manmade | Synthetic |
Manning | Staffing |
Housewife | Homemaker |
It may however be difficult to find gender-neutral alternatives to some words, such as ombudsman, midwife or fisherman.
