Degendering

Degendering is the process of removing or reducing gender distinctions in language, design, social roles, or products. It seeks to minimize the social and cultural implications of gendered differences and to promote inclusivity by avoiding assumptions about gender. In linguistics and sociolinguistics, degendering refers to reducing gendered markers, using gender-neutral pronouns such as they/them, and avoiding gendered terms for occupations or activities. In languages with grammatical gender, degendering may involve neutralizing gendered noun forms or expanding nonbinary pronouns, though implementation varies widely across languages and communities.

In design and marketing, degendering involves unisex or gender-neutral products and branding, avoiding color schemes or imagery stereotypically associated with a particular gender, and marketing to a broad audience rather than a specific gender group. In institutions and workplaces, degendering can include adopting inclusive job titles (such as firefighter or chair instead of fireman or chairman) and creating policies that avoid gender-based language in official documents.

Supporters argue that degendering reduces gender bias, broadens participation, and reflects diverse identities. Critics contend that it can suppress meaningful cultural or individual differences, complicate communication, or be driven by political agendas rather than practical needs. Empirical evidence on its effects is mixed and context-dependent.

See also: gender-neutral language, gender-inclusive design, unisex, inclusive terminology, nonbinary pronouns.