Henceforth mind your tongue.
A university has banned phrases such as ‘mankind’ and ‘gentleman’s agreement’ in favour of gender-neutral terms under its code of practice on inclusive language.
Cardiff Metropolitan University developed its code of practice to “promote fairness and equality”, adding that students should not allow their “cultural background” to affect their choice of words.
The university said it was committed to “providing an environment where everyone is valued”.
The university checklist has given alternative suggestions to include gender-neutral terms:
Best man for the job – Best person for the job
Fireman – Firefighter
Housewife – Shopper, Consumer, Homemaker
Manpower – Human resources, Labour force, Staff, Personnel, Workers
Tax man – Tax inspector
Sportsmanship – Fairness, Good humour, Sense of fair play
Gentleman’s agreement – Unwritten agreement, Agreement based on trust
