Section: Inclusive writing
Go to the main page of this section: Inclusive writing – Guidelines and resources.
On this page
- Introduction
- Guidelines for using numerical “one”
- Guidelines for using impersonal “one”
- Additional information
Introduction
In certain cases, you can avoid gender-specific pronouns by using the neutral singular pronoun “one.” Remember, though, that “one” can be used in the numerical sense or in the impersonal sense.
- Numerical “one” can replace a noun used as a single hypothetical person who represents a specific group.
- Impersonal “one” is used to convey a general statement that includes everyone.
| Technique | Gendered sentence | Inclusive solution |
|---|---|---|
| Numerical “one” | A lawyer in Toronto is likely to earn more than she would in Halifax. | A lawyer in Toronto is likely to earn more than one in Halifax. |
| Impersonal “one” | Under the law, a tenant has the right to control access to his apartment. | Under the law, one has the right to control access to one’s apartment. |
Guidelines for using numerical “one”
You can use numerical “one” to craft an inclusive sentence when you’re making a comparison.
| Gendered sentence | Inclusive solution |
|---|---|
| A home buyer in Northern Ontario will pay a lower price than he would in Southern Ontario for a comparable dwelling. | A home buyer in Northern Ontario will pay a lower price than one in Southern Ontario for a comparable dwelling. |
| A nurse in Canada has access to more advanced training than she would receive in a less developed nation. | A nurse in Canada has access to more advanced training than one in a less developed nation. |
Guidelines for using impersonal “one”
You can use impersonal “one” to craft an inclusive sentence when you want to be objective and formal. But a word of warning: use this technique with caution. Keep in mind that impersonal “one” is dated and rarely used in Canadian English. Because of its formality, it may make your writing sound pretentious.
| Gendered sentence | Inclusive solution |
|---|---|
| Anyone who wants to avoid heart problems should limit his intake of unhealthy fats. | To avoid heart problems, one should limit one’s intake of unhealthy fats. |
Additional information
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