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Gender-aware language

Promoting gender equality is a central task of Philipps-Universität Marburg. The language we use is an important tool to this end. This is because it makes people visible or invisible in their gender diversity. As a daily means of communication, language is, on one hand, a reflection of our society. On the other, language can also change society. Gender- and diversity-aware language contributes to a gender-equitable university. It ensures that people of all genders are addressed in a valued way.

In 2021, the Equal Opportunity Commission issued a new Language and Communication Guide for Gender-Equitable Language. This does not prescribe specific language. Instead, it encourages reflection on the many possibilities but also barriers in our languages. We would like to invite you to familiarize yourself with the background and various options for gender-equitable language. To this end, we will provide you with a brief overview of the legal and linguistic foundations. Of course, you will also find practical tips on how to deal with linguistic diversity. Don’t be afraid to try everything out first. Mistakes are allowed! If you have any questions, feel free to contact the Gender Equality Office. We’ll be happy to support you in your commitment to a gender-equitable university!

Contrary to some assumptions people make about the English language, there are actually a few things to keep in mind when using supposedly gender-neutral English. When writing English-language texts, please pay attention to the following issues:

Use gender-neutral wording

instead of "chairman" => "chairperson"
instead of "mankind" => "humankind", "humanity", "people"

As in German, use plural forms for gender neutrality.

instead of "A student should send his / her application." => "Students must send their applications."

In informal texts, use the gender-inclusive “singular they” (as well as “them” and “their”).

"The new student lost their textbook. If you find it, please return it to them. They would be very grateful."
"If students need help, they can ask the professor."
"Is your child adapting to their new environment?"

Be sure to take a second look at salutations and personal names. In the past, a married woman used to be addressed as “Mrs.” ['mɪsɨz] while an unmarried woman was addressed as “Miss” ['mɪs] (ending in an unvoiced “s” sound). This is the equivalent of German “Fräulein.” Those days are over! Just as you would no longer address any woman as “Fräulein,” please also avoid “Miss.”

Since the 1970s, a new term has taken root in the wake of equality:

“Ms.” ['mɪz] (ending in a voiced “z” sound, like the buzzing of a bee).

While in US English a period is set after abbreviated titles like “Ms.” or “Mr.,” in UK English “Ms” and “Mr” are not set with a period.

US English: "Dear Ms. Thompson" vs. UK English: "Dear Ms Thompson"

Again, it is best to use first and last names in correspondence:

"Dear Kamala Harris"
"Dear Bob Andrews"

And when giving a speech or lecture, it is best to greet your audience with "Dear guests, …" oder "Dearest colleagues and friends"