Sexism In Language And Language

As defined by J. G. Wilson (1999), sexism was set views of women’s actions, capabilities, sentiments, appearance and appropriate place in society. In majority of cultures, it has always been depicted that males are superiors to females. For a long period of time, women have been regarded as the inferior sex in the social order. Even in countries which hold the claim that “every one is created equal”, misogyny against women exists. “In society, men are considered the norm for the human species: their characteristics, thoughts, beliefs and actions are viewed as fully representing those of all humans, male and female” (Xiaolan Lei, 2006). This practice can make women be completely excluded and can indicate to their depiction as deviations from this 'male is equal to human ' standard. Denoted as autonomous, women’s language status is often reliant on or originates from that of men. Sexist language downgrades women to a dependent, lesser position and it prevents the depiction of women and men as different but equal human beings.

Language essentially exposes this social fact. Many overlook this problem because people think it does not actually exist. Even now, sexism roots deep in language and a different language forms. Women have their own language, inferior to the one of men in the society. Since language is closely connected to social attitudes, it has become a social phenomenon. Language is both a tool of knowledge and communication. People establish and reflect their