While women continue to advocate for equality in the workplace, at home, and elsewhere, there’s still crucial work to be done. Words hold immense power – they can uplift or they can harm, demean, and diminish. Unfortunately, many words, particularly those used to describe women, carry insidious undertones. They often imply how women ‘should’ act, enforcing unrealistic standards that hinder true equality. Here are 10 words you can remove from your vocabulary to actively help fight sexism.
Feisty
Like most words on our list, “feisty” isn’t inherently misogynistic. However, its common use can be patronizing and create a double standard in which men are celebrated while women are belittled for the same type of behavior. A man can be assertive, but for women, it’s considered “unladylike.” Call her courageous, lively, or determined instead and avoid this demeaning language.
Bubbly
“Bubbly” appeared during the Roaring Twenties as a word for a sparkling beverage like champagne. This is all fine and dandy. However, when used to describe a female, it becomes subtly nefarious. In certain professional and academic contexts, calling a woman “bubbly” was meant to diminish her intelligence. “Lively” and “cheery” are less offensive words to use.
Hussy
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This word originates from the shortening of the Middle English word “husewife,” or “housewife.” Over time, the word “hussy” became an insult, describing an immoral woman, particularly in a sexual context. Men are often celebrated for their sexual prowess, but women are shamed, implying a negative stereotype that women should conform to certain behaviors. Honestly, it wouldn’t be a bad thing if you dropped this word from your vocabulary.
Hysterical
During Sigmund Freud’s time, “hysteria” was considered a mental illness that women experienced due to a difference in hormones. It was used to diagnose the sudden flood of emotions someone experienced, interrupting their ability to function “normally.” Today, the word has been tossed from the mental health field. Be aware of what you are trying to imply when you call someone “hysterical.”
Bossy
When men display leadership characteristics, they are applauded. Women, however, are often called “bossy” for the same behavior. This word frequently implies someone is being difficult, demanding, or controlling, and has been explicitly used to demean and diminish women. Instead of labeling a woman as “bossy,” acknowledge her assertiveness, leadership, or clear direction without using a term rooted in gendered judgment.
Catty
Stan Lee and DC Comics didn’t do any favors for this stereotype when they created the character “Cat Woman.” Women who display strong competitiveness or an affinity for drama have historically been called “catty,” likening their behavior to that of an animal. I can think of other misogynistic words to use instead, but that would only deepen certain stereotypes. It’s best if you avoid using this word.
Governess
“Governess” is an old word that was originally meant as a counterpoint for “governor.” However, over time, the term was used to describe women who took care of upper-class children, often even responsible for their education. A “governess” was usually unmarried and a social outcast, earning a meager wage that forced them to be dependent on the employers they served. The word enforces traditional gender roles; luckily, the word’s usage has declined along with the vocation.
Nag
In traditional gender roles, women are often described as a “nag” when they request something from their partner. Its use is problematic because it undermines her authority in the relationship and can effectively silence her and her concerns. No one wants to be considered a “nag” because of its negative connotations. Avoid using this word to express your frustration and learn to communicate your feelings better.
Emotional
While being emotional isn’t necessarily a bad thing—all humans have emotions, after all—when aimed explicitly toward women, it can be a harmful word used to invalidate their concerns or requests. It’s true that our biological differences cause us to act and react in different ways, but the word becomes hurtful when used to persuade a point. Empathy is key in a relationship, so avoid telling a woman that she is being “too emotional.”
Sissy
Our last word to omit from your vocabulary to stop perpetuating misogyny is “sissy.” The word has been used to describe men who exhibit female traits, and by doing so, it establishes a stereotype about how women behave. Someone might be labeled a “sissy” if they can’t throw a ball, implying that women, like a sister, are weak and unskilled. Let’s resolve to beat stereotypes and remove “sissy” from our list of insults.
