Neuteronzijdig

Neuteronzijdig is a term used in some Dutch-language discussions of grammatical gender to describe a hypothetical or proposed configuration in which the neuter (onzijdig) category is central and gender marking is neutralized. The term is not part of standard grammars and typically appears in debates about gender-inclusive language and language reform. The core idea is to treat the neuter as the default or to merge masculine and feminine into a single non-gendered marking, resulting in a simplified system with reduced gender agreement and often with gender-neutral pronouns.

Typologically, neuteronzijdig would represent a move away from a three-way gender system toward a single nominal class with uniform agreement. In discussions, it is used as a thought experiment or policy proposal rather than a description of a widely attested natural language. Some proponents argue that such a change could reduce gender bias and linguistic complexity, while critics warn of ambiguity, loss of historical cues, and resistance to change.

Because the term is not standardized, specific rules vary among authors. A hypothetical description might include a uniform definite article or determiner not distinguished by gender, non-gendered pronouns, and adjectives that do not participate in gender agreement. Real-world implementations would depend on language-specific constraints and sociolinguistic acceptance.

See also: grammatical gender, gender-neutral language, neuter, language reform.