30 Inclusive Examples to Promote Neutral Language

Language is a powerful tool; it not only reflects but also shapes societal values. When used thoughtfully, it can promote inclusion and respect. However, some words and phrases carry biases that can exclude, stereotype, or marginalize others. Using neutral language is a simple way to help create a more inclusive world.

This blog post focuses on the importance of neutral language and shares 30 inclusive examples to address bias in everyday communication.

Why Neutral Language Matters

Neutral language ensures that your communication is inclusive and free of unconscious bias. It helps to:

• Avoid Stereotypes: Prevent harmful or outdated generalizations.
• Foster Inclusivity: Welcome diverse identities, perspectives, and experiences.
• Appreciate Differences: Show sensitivity to differences, reducing the risk of alienation or offense.

By being mindful of the words you use, you can create an environment that is respectful and professional for everyone.

30 Examples of Neutral Language

Here’s how to replace biased terms with more inclusive alternatives:

Gender-Neutral Alternatives

1. Chairman → Chair or Chairperson
2. Fireman → Firefighter
3. Policeman → Police officer
4. Stewardess → Flight attendant
5. Manpower → Workforce
6. Mankind → Humankind or Humanity
7. He/She → They (used as a singular pronoun)

Inclusive Workplace Terms

1. Man hours → Person hours or Work hours
2. Addressing a group as ‘Guys’ → Team, Everyone, or Folks
3. Secretary → Administrative assistant
4. Cleaning lady → Cleaner or Janitor
5. Foreman → Supervisor

Culturally Sensitive Phrasing

1. Third world countries → Developing countries
2. Minority groups → Underrepresented groups
3. Non-white → People of color (when appropriate)
4. Illegal immigrant → Undocumented immigrant
5. Culturally diverse → Multicultural

Disability-Inclusive Language

1. Handicapped → Person with a disability
2. Wheelchair-bound → Person who uses a wheelchair
3. Mentally ill → Person with a mental health condition
4. Deaf and dumb → Deaf or Hard of hearing

Inclusive Family Terms

1. Mothering → Parenting or Caregiving
2. Father figure → Role model
3. Brotherhood → Fellowship

Bias-Free Everyday Expressions

1. Master/slave (in tech) → Primary/secondary or Leader/follower
2. Blacklist/whitelist → Blocklist/allowlist (terms gaining traction in tech contexts)
3. Man-made → Artificial or Human-made
4. Blind spot → Knowledge gap

Respecting Gender Identity

1. Preferred pronouns → Pronouns
2. Transsexual → Transgender person

How to Include Neutral Language

1. Educate Yourself: Learn about the nuances of inclusive language, especially around gender, culture, and abilities.
2. Check Your Assumptions: Recognize and address unconscious biases in your language.
3. Update Your Vocabulary: Replace outdated terms with inclusive alternatives.
4. Listen and Adapt: Respect how people self-identify and adjust your language accordingly.

Using neutral language is a simple yet powerful step toward fostering inclusion and breaking down biases. Minor changes in how you communicate can lead to a kinder, more inclusive world.

Start today with these 30 examples—because words matter.

Have other examples of neutral language or inclusive terms? Let us know in the comments below!