Guidelines for Gender-Sensitive Language
As part of its diversity strategy, the University of Bonn has set itself the task of creating a working environment that welcomes everyone. The use of gender-sensitive language plays a central role in this.
Goals
Language is a tool whose power is often underestimated. In relation to gender, this is expressed, for example, through the use of the generic masculine form. This form is especially relevant for the German language, since it is still commonly used. Yet, several studies have already found that when the masculine form is used in relation to all genders, participants more often have men in mind than when gender-sensitive formulations are used (cf. Sczesny/Stahlber 2001). The effect remains even when it is pointed out that the generic masculine form refers to all genders (cf. Rothermund/Strack 2024). This is why gender-neutral language is so important.
These guidelines for gender-sensitive language provide an introduction to gender-sensitive language in German. The aim is to provide anyone interested in using gender neutral language examples on how to do so in German. We included one chapter (3d: Verwendung von geschlechtersensibler Sprache auf English) for the use of gender-sensitive language in the English Language. Since the guidelines are otherwise only relevant to the German language, the document is provided only in German.
Gender star *
The University of Bonn recommends the predominant use of gender-neutral language and, where necessary, the use of the gender star.
Download
You can download the current version of the guidelines here. The guide is not available in English. Below you can find some relevant explanations for the English language.
Gender-sensitive use of English
Even in English, which is predominantly gender-neutral, there are situations in which you should pay attention to the wording you use. Here is an examples of how to use gender-sensitive wording in English.
Use of they/them
In English, the plural pronoun “they” can be used in the singular as a personal pronoun. This is often used by non-binary people or people who do not feel comfortable with “he” or “she.”
Example
Every student must bring their computer/a computer instead of Every student must bring his computer; Dear all instead of Dear sir or madam.
Use of Miss/Mrs
The terms “Miss” or “Mrs.” for women, depending on their marital status, are no longer appropriate. Instead, Ms. (pronounced məz or mɪz) should be used. For non-binary people, the title Mx. (pronounced məks or mɪks) can be used. It is even easier to omit the title and use the person's first and last name instead.
Example
Mx. Smith has given a wonderful research example in their paper. They have received a prize for it.
Esther Kilian (sie/ihr)
Dechenstraße 3-11
53115 Bonn
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News and events
Here you will find the latest news and events on the topic of diversity at the University of Bonn.