Correcting Gender Bias in English: The Usage of 'Every' and 'His/Her'

Grammatical accuracy in English is crucial, especially when it comes to using gender-inclusive language. This article aims to shed light on the correct usage of determiners like every and possessive pronouns like his and her. We will explore why it's important to be gender neutral in English and provide examples to help you write more inclusive and accurate sentences.

Debunking the Common Myth

There has been a long-standing debate over the correct usage of every with singular or plural verbs. Some argue that every boy and every girl should be treated as singular entities and thus require the use of singular verbs. However, the 'every' in question designates a whole group of indivisible people, and each member of that group should naturally be treated as plural. Therefore, the correct form is every boy and every girl are going to the village. If you wish to specify each individual's unique journey, you can say every boy and every girl are going to his/her own village.

The Importance of Gender Neutrality

The importance of using gender-neutral language in English cannot be overstated. Inclusion and equality are paramount in today's society, and using language that is free from gender bias can help level the playing field. Language that is inclusive can also help to promote a more welcoming environment for all people, regardless of their gender, race, or any other characteristic.

By using gender-neutral language, you can help to ensure that all individuals are represented and acknowledged, reducing the risk of excluding or marginalizing any group. Additionally, using gender-neutral language can help to break down stereotypes and challenge the traditional gender roles that have long been a cornerstone of our society. By using language that is free from gender bias, you can help to create a more equitable and just world for everyone.

Practical Examples

Here are some practical examples of how to use gender-neutral language correctly:

Both students are working on their projects. (Instead of saying Both boys and girls are working on their projects, you can use students as a gender-neutral term.)

Every employee will receive a bonus. (Instead of saying Every boy and girl will receive a bonus, use every employee.)

His/her can be used for individual references where gender is not specified, for example, His/her essay was well-written.

Conclusion

Using gender-neutral language is not just a matter of political correctness; it is a crucial step towards creating a more inclusive and equitable society. By using the correct grammatical structure and inclusive terms when referring to groups of people, you can help to ensure that everyone is acknowledged and respected. This article has provided a clear explanation of the correct usage of every and his/her, and we hope this guide will be helpful in your efforts to write more inclusive and accurate English.

Key Takeaways

Use every as plural when referring to an entire group, e.g., Every boy and every girl are going to the village.

Use his/her for individual references where the gender is not specified.

Choose gender-neutral terms such as student, teacher, and employee to avoid gender bias.

Keywords: English grammar, gender neutrality, correct sentence structure