Neutralsingu

Neutralsingu is a theoretical term used in discussions of language design to describe a proposed neutral singular pronoun system. In this concept, a single pronoun form would replace gendered variants in the third person and potentially other categories, aiming to be inclusive across gender identities and referents.

Origin and use: Neutralsingu is a neologism combining neutral with singular. It arises in speculative linguistics and some science fiction essays as a thought experiment about how languages could evolve under strong pressure for gender neutrality. It is not a standard or widely adopted system.

Core features include one form for third-person singular that covers all genders, cases, and animacy in a given community. The pronoun would be invariant in number and rarely inflect for gender. Depending on the variant, verbs and adjectives may align with the pronoun or maintain conventional agreement. Context often guides reference.

Implications and debates: Advocates argue neutralsingu reduces bias, simplifies writing, and improves accessibility. Critics warn it risks erasing subtle distinctions, complicates translation, and challenges communities with established grammatical genders. Implementation would require education, policy changes, and careful consideration of existing languages and technologies.

Example: in neutralsingu, the third-person singular pronoun xe might be used in sentences such as Xe is reading a book; Xe said xe would return later. Such usage is hypothetical and serves to illustrate potential outcomes rather than a current standard.