Inclusionary: A collection of gender-inclusive solutions

Section: Inclusive writing

Go to the main page of this section: Inclusive writing – Guidelines and resources.

The Inclusionary contains a list of gendered words, along with suggestions for inclusive solutions. It was designed to provide writers, editors and translators with a starting point for writing inclusively in English, in accordance with the techniques outlined in the Guidelines for Inclusive Writing.

Not everyone will agree with all the solutions provided in the Inclusionary. Some solutions may not apply in certain contexts. For example, the Inclusionary provides alternatives to gendered terms for family members. Of course, these gendered terms (“mother,” “father,” etc.) are perfectly appropriate in many contexts and don’t need to be consistently avoided. The gender-inclusive alternatives aren’t meant to be used in every context, but rather in those contexts where the gender of the person referred to is non-binary or is unknown. You must therefore exercise judgment in applying the proposed solutions.

To learn more about this tool, visit the About the Inclusionary page.

Help us improve the Inclusionary by filling out the suggestion form.

User guide

There are three ways to search this guide:

1. Search in the Inclusionary index

Select a letter to browse the Inclusionary alphabetically. Then click on an entry to view its contents.

2. Search by keyword in the Inclusionary

Begin typing the word you’re looking for. As you type, a real-time search filter will open the relevant entries and highlight the characters entered in the search field.

For best results, type the entire word you’re looking for.

Note that the index will disappear when you use the search field. To access the index, simply clear the search field.

3. Use the "Show all" button

Click on "Show all" to open up all the entries in the Inclusionary. You can then either browse through the entries or press the "Ctrl" and "F" keys simultaneously on your keyboard and then search by term in the "Search" window of your browser. Unfortunately, this search tip doesn’t work with all types of devices.

Search in the Inclusionary index

A

anchorman; anchorwoman (noun)

Examples and solutions
Gendered sentence Inclusive solutions

An anchorman usually has years of experience as a reporter.

  • An anchor usually has years of experience as a reporter.
  • An anchor person usually has years of experience as a reporter.

B

boyfriend (noun)

Examples and solutions
Gendered sentence Inclusive solutions

You may invite your boyfriend to accompany you.

  • You may invite your partner to accompany you.
  • You may invite your significant other to accompany you.

brother (noun)

Examples and solutions
Gendered sentence Inclusive solutions

The child was picked up from school by an older brother.

  • The child was picked up from school by an older sibling.

brotherhood (noun)

Examples and solutions
Gendered sentence Inclusive solutions

Attendees enjoyed the feeling of brotherhood at the event.

  • Attendees enjoyed the feeling of camaraderie at the event.
  • Attendees enjoyed the feeling of comradeship at the event.
  • Attendees enjoyed the feeling of friendship at the event.
  • Attendees enjoyed the feeling of solidarity at the event.
  • Attendees enjoyed the feeling of togetherness at the event.
  • Attendees enjoyed the feeling of kinship at the event.
  • Attendees enjoyed the feeling of harmony at the event.
  • Attendees enjoyed the feeling of oneness at the event.

businessman; businesswoman (noun)

Examples and solutions
Gendered sentence Inclusive solutions

A businesswoman or businessman needs strong leadership skills.

  • A business person needs strong leadership skills.
  • A business executive needs strong leadership skills.
  • A business leader needs strong leadership skills.
  • An entrepreneur needs strong leadership skills.

Businessmen will have to pay closer attention to supply chain issues.

  • Business people will have to pay closer attention to supply chain issues.
  • Business leaders will have to pay closer attention to supply chain issues.
  • Entrepreneurs will have to pay closer attention to supply chain issues.
  • The business community will have to pay closer attention to supply chain issues.
  • The business world will have to pay closer attention to supply chain issues.

C

cameraman; camerawoman (noun)

Examples and solutions
Gendered sentence Inclusive solutions

The cameraman must know all the features of the camera.

  • The camera operator must know all the features of the camera.
  • The videographer must know all the features of the camera.

The cameramen adjust their equipment.

  • The camera crew adjusts its equipment.

cattleman; cattlewoman (noun)

Examples and solutions
Gendered sentence Inclusive solutions

A cattleman works long hours outdoors.

  • A cowhand works long hours outdoors.
  • A cowherd works long hours outdoors.
  • A cattle attendant works long hours outdoors.

The program helps cattlemen and cattlewomen when prices drop.

  • The program helps cattle owners when prices drop.
  • The program helps cattle ranchers when prices drop.
  • The program helps cattle farmers when prices drop.

chairman; chairwoman (noun)

Examples and solutions
Gendered sentence Inclusive solutions

The chairwoman usually makes some opening remarks.

  • The chair usually makes some opening remarks.
  • The chairperson usually makes some opening remarks.
  • The convenor usually makes some opening remarks.
  • The facilitator usually makes some opening remarks.
  • The moderator usually makes some opening remarks.

chambermaid (noun); cleaning lady (noun phrase); maid (noun)

Examples and solutions
Gendered sentence Inclusive solutions

The resort will be hiring chamber maids.

  • The resort will be hiring a housekeeping team.
  • The resort will be hiring a housekeeping crew.
  • The resort will be hiring housekeeping staff.
  • The resort will be hiring cleaning staff.
  • The resort will be hiring a cleaning crew.
  • The resort will be hiring a cleaning team.
  • The resort will be hiring staff to clean rooms.
  • The resort will be hiring a crew to clean rooms.
  • The resort will be hiring a team to clean rooms.
  • The resort will be hiring cleaners.
  • The resort will be hiring room cleaners.

Cleaning ladies must clean floors and replace dirty linen.

  • Cleaners must clean floors and replace dirty linen.
  • House cleaners must clean floors and replace dirty linen.
  • Housekeepers must clean floors and replace dirty linen.
  • A cleaning crew must clean floors and replace dirty linen.
  • A cleaning team must clean floors and replace dirty linen.

comedienne (noun)

Examples and solutions
Gendered sentence Inclusive solutions

A comedienne can often find work in writing.

  • A comedian can often find work in writing.
  • A comic can often find work in writing.
  • An entertainer can often find work in writing.

common man (noun phrase)

Examples and solutions
Gendered sentence Inclusive solutions

The concerns of the common man must be addressed in every federal budget.

  • The concerns of the average person must be addressed in every federal budget.
  • The concerns of the common person must be addressed in every federal budget.
  • The concerns of the ordinary person must be addressed in every federal budget.
  • The concerns of the average citizen must be addressed in every federal budget.

councilman; councilwoman (noun)

Examples and solutions
Gendered sentence Inclusive solutions

A councilwoman must maintain a good rapport with constituents.

  • A city councillor must maintain a good rapport with constituents.
  • A councillor must maintain a good rapport with constituents.
  • A council member must maintain a good rapport with constituents.

The councilmen voted in favour of the by-law.

  • The city councillors voted in favour of the by-law.
  • The councillors voted in favour of the by-law.
  • The council voted in favour of the by-law.
  • City council voted in favour of the by-law.
  • The members voted in favour of the by-law.
  • The by-law was adopted.

cowboy; cowgirl (noun)

Examples and solutions
Gendered sentence Inclusive solutions

For a cowboy, leather gloves are an essential clothing item.

  • For a cowhand, leather gloves are an essential clothing item.
  • For a cowherd, leather gloves are an essential clothing item.

craftsman; craftswoman (noun)

Examples and solutions
Gendered sentence Inclusive solutions

A local craftswoman created the award.

  • A local artisan created the award.
  • A local craftsperson created the award.
  • A local artist created the award.

craftsmanship (noun)

Examples and solutions
Gendered sentence Inclusive solutions

The craftsmanship displayed in this carving is exceptional.

  • The artisanship displayed in this carving is exceptional.
  • The artistry displayed in this carving is exceptional.
  • The expertise displayed in this carving is exceptional.
  • The skill displayed in this carving is exceptional.
  • The technique displayed in this carving is exceptional.

crewman (noun)

Examples and solutions
Gendered sentence Inclusive solutions

The crewman recorded an anomaly in the log.

  • The crew member recorded an anomaly in the log.
  • A member of the crew recorded an anomaly in the log.
  • One of the crew recorded an anomaly in the log.

Crewmen must conduct flight tests.

  • Crew members must conduct flight tests.
  • The crew must conduct flight tests.
  • Personnel must conduct flight tests.

D

daughter (noun)

Examples and solutions
Gendered sentence Inclusive solutions

Parents must accompany their daughter.

  • Parents must accompany their child.
  • Parents must accompany their little one.

The parents are visiting their daughter in Calgary.

  • The parents are visiting their eldest in Calgary.
  • The parents are visiting their first-born in Calgary.
  • The parents are visiting their youngest in Calgary.
  • The parents are visiting their middle child in Calgary.

doorman; doorwoman (noun)

Examples and solutions
Gendered sentence Inclusive solutions

The doorman opened the door for guests.

  • The doorperson opened the door for guests.
  • The door attendant opened the door for guests.
  • The doorkeeper opened the door for guests.
  • The commissionaire opened the door for guests.

F

father (noun)

Examples and solutions
Gendered sentence Inclusive solutions

Several fathers helped with the renovations.

  • Several parents helped with the renovations.

fatherhood (noun)

Examples and solutions
Gendered sentence Inclusive solutions

Fatherhood involves both privileges and responsibilities.

  • Parenthood involves both privileges and responsibilities.
  • Parenting involves both privileges and responsibilities.

female doctor (noun phrase)

Examples and solutions
Gendered sentence Inclusive solutions

A female doctor responded to the request for help.

  • A doctor responded to the request for help.
  • A physician responded to the request for help.
  • A medical practitioner responded to the request for help.

fireman; firewoman (noun)

Examples and solutions
Gendered sentence Inclusive solutions

The fireman rescued the child from the burning building.

  • The firefighter rescued the child from the burning building.

fisherman; fisherwoman (noun)

Examples and solutions
Gendered sentence Inclusive solutions

A good fisherman must have a variety of lures.

  • A good angler must have a variety of lures.
  • A good fisher must have a variety of lures.

Commercial fishermen and fisherwomen must be licensed.

  • Commercial fishers must be licensed.

forefathers (noun)

Examples and solutions
Gendered sentence Inclusive solutions

Our forefathers established a great nation.

  • Our ancestors established a great nation.
  • Our forebears established a great nation.
  • Those who have gone before us established a great nation.

foreman; forewoman (noun)

Examples and solutions
Gendered sentence Inclusive solutions

The foreman is tasked with maximizing the crew’s efficiency.

  • The team leader is tasked with maximizing the crew’s efficiency.
  • The crew leader is tasked with maximizing the crew’s efficiency.
  • The foreperson is tasked with maximizing the crew’s efficiency.
  • The supervisor is tasked with maximizing the crew’s efficiency.
  • The shift supervisor is tasked with maximizing the crew’s efficiency.

The foreman of the jury announced the verdict.

  • The foreperson of the jury announced the verdict.
  • The head juror announced the verdict.
  • The presiding juror announced the verdict.

founding fathers (noun)

Examples and solutions
Gendered sentence Inclusive solutions

The founding fathers of the program received an award.

  • The founders of the program received an award.
  • The architects of the program received an award.
  • The creators of the program received an award.
  • The inventors of the program received an award.
  • The authors of the program received an award.
  • The organizers of the program received an award.
  • The designers of the program received an award.
  • The originators of the program received an award.
  • The initiators of the program received an award.
  • Those who founded the program received an award.
  • Those who created the program received an award.
  • Those who invented the program received an award.
  • Those who authored the program received an award.
  • Those who organized the program received an award.
  • Those who designed the program received an award.
  • Those who initiated the program received an award.

fraternal twins (noun phrase)

Examples and solutions
Gendered sentence Inclusive solutions

Two sets of fraternal twins were born last week.

  • Two sets of non-identical twins were born last week.
  • Two sets of dizygotic twins were born last week.

G

gateman; gatewoman (noun)

Examples and solutions
Gendered sentence Inclusive solutions

The gateman checked visitors’ passes.

  • The gate attendant checked visitors’ passes.
  • The gatekeeper checked visitors’ passes.
  • The gate guard checked visitors’ passes.
  • The guard at the gate checked visitors’ passes.
  • The attendant at the gate checked visitors’ passes.

girlfriend (noun)

Examples and solutions
Gendered sentence Inclusive solutions

You may bring your girlfriend to the event.

  • You may bring your partner to the event.
  • You may bring your significant other to the event.

godfather; godmother (noun)

Examples and solutions
Gendered sentence Inclusive solutions

The godfather must be present at the ceremony.

  • The godparent must be present at the ceremony.

godson; goddaughter (noun)

Examples and solutions
Gendered sentence Inclusive solutions

The couple’s goddaughter won the Governor General’s Gold Medal.

  • The couple’s godchild won the Governor General’s Gold Medal.

grandfather; grandmother (noun)

Examples and solutions
Gendered sentence Inclusive solutions

The child’s grandfather will pick the child up from school.

  • The child’s grandparent will pick the child up from school.

grandson; granddaughter (noun)

Examples and solutions
Gendered sentence Inclusive solutions

The woman’s granddaughter has power of attorney.

  • The woman’s grandchild has power of attorney.

H

handyman; handywoman (noun)

Examples and solutions
Gendered sentence Inclusive solutions

I hired a handyman to do odd jobs around the house.

  • I hired a handyperson to do odd jobs around the house.
  • I hired a repairperson to do odd jobs around the house.

husband (noun)

Examples and solutions
Gendered sentence Inclusive solutions

Please provide your husband’s social insurance number.

  • Please provide your spouse’s social insurance number.
  • Please provide your partner’s social insurance number.
  • Please provide your life partner’s social insurance number.
  • Please provide your significant other’s social insurance number.

I

insurance man; insurance woman (noun phrase)

Examples and solutions
Gendered sentence Inclusive solutions

Our insurance man explained the details of the policy.

  • Our insurance agent explained the details of the policy.
  • Our insurance broker explained the details of the policy.

J

jack-of-all-trades; jill-of-all-trades (noun)

Examples and solutions
Gendered sentence Inclusive solutions

A jack-of-all-trades can fix anything around the home.

  • A handyperson can fix anything around the home.
  • A repairperson can fix anything around the home.

juryman, jurywoman (noun)

Examples and solutions
Gendered sentence Inclusive solutions

A juryman is selected at random.

  • A juror is selected at random.

L

ladies and gentlemen (phrase)

Examples and solutions
Gendered sentence Inclusive solutions

Ladies and gentlemen, thank you for attending today’s presentation.

  • Colleagues, thank you for attending today’s presentation.
  • Friends, thank you for attending today’s presentation.
  • Esteemed guests, thank you for attending today’s presentation.
  • Thank you all for attending today’s presentation.
  • Thank you, everyone, for attending today’s presentation.

landlord; landlady (noun)

Examples and solutions
Gendered sentence Inclusive solutions

The landlady arranged for the repairs.

  • The owner arranged for the repairs.
  • The property owner arranged for the repairs.
  • The lessor arranged for the repairs.
  • The proprietor arranged for the repairs.
  • The real estate owner arranged for the repairs.

layman (noun)

Examples and solutions
Gendered sentence Inclusive solutions

Even a layman can easily understand this explanation.

  • Even a layperson can easily understand this explanation.
  • Even a nonexpert can easily understand this explanation.
  • Even a nonprofessional can easily understand this explanation.
  • Even a nonspecialist can easily understand this explanation.
  • Even a neophyte can easily understand this explanation.
  • Even an inexperienced person can easily understand this explanation.

M

madam (noun)

Examples and solutions
Gendered sentence Inclusive solutions

Dear Madam:

  • Dear Carmen Fernandez:
    (when the receiver’s name is known)
  • Dear Carmen:
    (when the receiver’s name is known, and the context is less formal)
  • Dear Parts Manager:
    (when the receiver’s name is unknown)
  • To Whom It May Concern:
    (when the receiver is unknown)
  • Dear Tenant:
    (for a form letter)

Good evening, Madam.

  • Good evening.

maiden (adjective)

Examples and solutions
Gendered sentence Inclusive solutions

Your maiden name must appear on the application.

  • Your birth name must appear on the application.
  • Your name at birth must appear on the application.

Canadarm2 will undock the spacecraft on its maiden voyage.

  • Canadarm2 will undock the spacecraft on its first voyage.
  • Canadarm2 will undock the spacecraft on its initial voyage.

mailman; mailwoman (noun)

Examples and solutions
Gendered sentence Inclusive solutions

A mailman walks several kilometres in a day.

  • A mail carrier walks several kilometres in a day.
  • A letter carrier walks several kilometres in a day.

maintenance man; maintenance woman (noun phrase)

Examples and solutions
Gendered sentence Inclusive solutions

The maintenance man fixed the leaking pipe.

  • The caretaker fixed the leaking pipe.
  • The custodian fixed the leaking pipe.
  • The janitor fixed the leaking pipe.
  • The superintendent fixed the leaking pipe.

male nurse (noun phrase)

Examples and solutions
Gendered sentence Inclusive solutions

A male nurse accompanied the patient.

  • A nurse accompanied the patient.

man (noun)

Examples and solutions
Gendered sentence Inclusive solutions

Every man has certain basic rights.

  • Every person has certain basic rights.
  • Every individual has certain basic rights.
  • Every human being has certain basic rights.
  • All people have certain basic rights.
  • Everybody has certain basic rights.
  • Everyone has certain basic rights.

Man went from horse-drawn carriages to space flight in a single century.

  • Humanity went from horse-drawn carriages to space flight in a single century.
  • Humankind went from horse-drawn carriages to space flight in a single century.
  • The human race went from horse-drawn carriages to space flight in a single century.
  • Humans went from horse-drawn carriages to space flight in a single century.
  • Human beings went from horse-drawn carriages to space flight in a single century.

Early man made tools out of stone.

  • Early Homo sapiens made tools out of stone.
  • Early humans made tools out of stone.

Man’s achievements over the last century were astounding.

  • Human achievements over the last century were astounding.

man (verb)

Examples and solutions
Gendered sentence Inclusive solutions

Band members manned a booth at Winnipeg’s Manito Ahbee Festival.

  • Band members operated a booth at Winnipeg’s Manito Ahbee Festival.
  • Band members ran a booth at Winnipeg’s Manito Ahbee Festival.
  • Band members staffed a booth at Winnipeg’s Manito Ahbee Festival.

man of action (noun phrase)

Examples and solutions
Gendered sentence Inclusive solutions

The chair was a man of action.

  • The chair was a person of action.
  • The chair was an achiever.
  • The chair was a go-getter.
  • The chair was a human dynamo.
  • The chair was a dynamo.
  • The chair was a fireball.
  • The chair was a powerhouse.

man of letters (noun phrase)

Examples and solutions
Gendered sentence Inclusive solutions

Michael Ondaatje is a talented man of letters.

  • Michael Ondaatje is a talented author.
  • Michael Ondaatje is a talented poet.
  • Michael Ondaatje is a talented novelist.
  • Michael Ondaatje is a talented writer.
  • Michael Ondaatje is a talented literary figure.

The professor was a noted man of letters.

  • The professor was a noted scholar.
  • The professor was a noted academic.

man on the street (noun phrase)

Examples and solutions
Gendered sentence Inclusive solutions

Street-corner interviews give a voice to the man on the street.

  • Street-corner interviews give a voice to the average person.
  • Street-corner interviews give a voice to the average citizen.
  • Street-corner interviews give a voice to the ordinary person.
  • Street-corner interviews give a voice to the typical person.

man-hour (noun)

Examples and solutions
Gendered sentence Inclusive solutions

The estimated time required was 90 man-hours.

  • The estimated time required was 90 person-hours.
  • The estimated time required was 90 work hours.
  • The estimated time required was 90 hours of work.
  • The estimated time required was 90 hours of labour.

man-made (adjective)

Examples and solutions
Gendered sentence Inclusive solutions

Various man-made fibres are used in clothing.

  • Various manufactured fibres are used in clothing.
  • Various machine-made fibres are used in clothing.
  • Various synthetic fibres are used in clothing.
  • Various artificial fibres are used in clothing.

manhandle (verb)

Examples and solutions
Gendered sentence Inclusive solutions

The four workers manhandled the massive desk onto the truck.

  • The four workers hauled the massive desk onto the truck.
  • The four workers heaved the massive desk onto the truck.
  • The four workers lugged the massive desk onto the truck.

Security guards prevented rowdy fans from manhandling their opponents.

  • Security guards prevented rowdy fans from roughing up their opponents.
  • Security guards prevented rowdy fans from scuffling with their opponents.
  • Security guards prevented rowdy fans from tussling with their opponents.
  • Security guards prevented rowdy fans from grappling with their opponents.

manhole (noun)

Examples and solutions
Gendered sentence Inclusive solutions
A worker entered the manhole to make the repair.
  • A worker entered the maintenance hole to make the repair.
  • A worker entered the utility hole to make the repair.

manhood (noun)

Examples and solutions
Gendered sentence Inclusive solutions

The path to manhood involves many challenges.

  • The path to adulthood involves many challenges.
  • Becoming an adult involves many challenges.

mankind (noun)

Examples and solutions
Gendered sentence Inclusive solutions

Mankind has a responsibility to care for all life on this planet.

  • Humankind has a responsibility to care for all life on this planet.
  • Humanity has a responsibility to care for all life on this planet.
  • Human beings have a responsibility to care for all life on this planet.
  • The human race has a responsibility to care for all life on this planet.
  • People have a responsibility to care for all life on this planet.
  • Everyone has a responsibility to care for all life on this planet.
  • Each of us has a responsibility to care for all life on this planet.

See also

man (noun)

manlike (adjective)

Examples and solutions
Gendered sentence Inclusive solutions

The droid’s appearance was surprisingly manlike.

  • The droid’s appearance was surprisingly humanlike.
  • The droid’s appearance was surprisingly human.

manned (adjective)

Examples and solutions
Gendered sentence Inclusive solutions

Today, manned spaceflight is a reality.

  • Today, human spaceflight is a reality.

Manned submersibles allow us to carry out deep-sea research.

  • Human-occupied submersibles allow us to carry out deep-sea research.

Manned by two astronauts, the craft made a successful flight.

  • Piloted by two astronauts, the craft made a successful flight.

Two ships built and manned by Canadians were sent to Britain in 1940.

  • Two ships built and crewed by Canadians were sent to Britain in 1940.

Roadblocks manned by police officers were set up.

  • Roadblocks staffed by police officers were set up.
  • Roadblocks operated by police officers were set up.

manpower (noun)

Examples and solutions
Gendered sentence Inclusive solutions

Find out how much manpower will be needed for this project.

  • Find out how large a staff will be needed for this project.
  • Find out how large a workforce will be needed for this project.
  • Find out how many employees will be needed for this project.
  • Find out how many staff members will be needed for this project.
  • Find out how many workers will be needed for this project.
  • Find out how many resources will be needed for this project.
  • Find out how many people will be needed for this project.

masseur; masseuse (noun)

Examples and solutions
Gendered sentence Inclusive solutions

The spa is looking for a masseur or masseuse to join their team.

  • The spa is looking for a massage therapist to join their team.

men at work; men working (noun phrase)

Examples and solutions
Gendered sentence Inclusive solutions

Ensure that the message “MEN AT WORK” is in full view.

  • Ensure that the message “PEOPLE AT WORK” is in full view.
  • Ensure that the message “PEOPLE WORKING” is in full view.
  • Ensure that the message “WORKERS PRESENT” is in full view.
  • Ensure that the message “ROAD WORK AHEAD” is in full view.
  • Ensure that the message “OVERHEAD WORK” is in full view.
  • Ensure that the message “CONSTRUCTION” is in full view.
  • Ensure that the message “CONSTRUCTION ZONE” is in full view.
  • Ensure that the message “WORK IN PROGRESS” is in full view.
  • Ensure that the message “WATCH FOR WORKERS” is in full view.

middleman (noun)

Examples and solutions
Gendered sentence Inclusive solutions

Buying directly instead of through a middleman can cut costs.

  • Buying directly instead of through a wholesaler can cut costs.
  • Buying directly instead of through a distributor can cut costs.
  • Buying directly instead of through an agent can cut costs.
  • Buying directly instead of through a broker can cut costs.

A middleman helped to set up the agreement.

  • A go-between helped to set up the agreement.
  • An intermediary helped to set up the agreement.
  • A mediator helped to set up the agreement.
  • A negotiator helped to set up the agreement.

Miss; Mrs.; Ms.; Mr. (noun)

Comment

Non-binary individuals rarely identify with the titles Miss, Mrs., Ms. and Mr.; for that reason it’s important to have inclusive solutions. For more information on addressing non-binary individuals, see the article Gender-inclusive writing: Guidelines for writing to or about non-binary individuals.

Examples and solutions
Gendered sentence Inclusive solutions

Dear Miss Jones:

  • Dear Morgan Jones:
    (when the receiver’s name is known)
  • Dear Morgan:
    (when the receiver’s name is known, and the context is less formal)
  • Dear Customer Service Manager:
    (when the receiver’s name is unknown)
  • To Whom It May Concern:
    (when the receiver is unknown)
  • Dear Occupant:
    (for a form letter)

Mr. Jones is taking a well-deserved retirement after 25 years with the department.

  • Morgan Jones is taking a well-deserved retirement after 25 years with the department.
  • Morgan is taking a well-deserved retirement after 25 years with the department.

mother (noun)

Examples and solutions
Gendered sentence Inclusive solutions

Provide the mother’s full name.

  • Provide the gestational parent’s full name.
  • Provide the birthing parent’s full name.
  • Provide the parent’s full name.

motherhood (noun)

Examples and solutions
Gendered sentence Inclusive solutions

Motherhood can be a source of great joy.

  • Parenthood can be a source of great joy.
  • Becoming a parent can be a source of great joy.

N

number one man (noun phrase)

Examples and solutions
Gendered sentence Inclusive solutions

Consult the number one man in that field.

  • Consult the leader in that field.
  • Consult the best in that field.

Consult the number one man in the company.

  • Consult the head of the company.

Train with the number one man on the team.

  • Train with the top player on the team.

number two man (noun phrase)

Examples and solutions
Gendered sentence Inclusive solutions

Being the number two man comes with responsibility.

  • Being the second-in-command comes with responsibility.
  • Being someone’s right-hand person comes with responsibility.

O

odd man out (noun phrase)

Examples and solutions
Gendered sentence Inclusive solutions

The shy student felt like the odd man out at school.

  • The shy student felt like the odd one out at school.
  • The shy student felt left out at school.
  • The shy student felt excluded at school.

oilman; oilwoman (noun)

Examples and solutions
Gendered sentence Inclusive solutions

Oilmen and oilwomen were contacted about future drilling.

  • Oil company executives were contacted about future drilling.
  • Oil industry executives were contacted about future drilling.
  • Oil executives were contacted about future drilling.

Oilmen are in demand in Alberta.

  • Oilfield workers are in demand in Alberta.

old wives’ tale (noun phrase)

Examples and solutions
Gendered sentence Inclusive solutions

That’s just an old wives’ tale.

  • That’s just a folktale.
  • That’s just a myth.
  • That’s just a superstition.

ombudsman; ombudswoman (noun)

Examples and solutions
Gendered sentence Inclusive solutions

The ombudsman negotiated an agreement.

  • The ombudsperson negotiated an agreement.
  • The ombud negotiated an agreement.
  • The ombudsFootnote 1 negotiated an agreement.

one-man (adjective)

Examples and solutions
Gendered sentence Inclusive solutions

The one-man performance was a hit.

  • The solo performance was a hit.
  • The one-person performance was a hit.

opposite sex (noun phrase)

Examples and solutions
Gendered sentence Inclusive solutions

Young people generally tend to have friends of the opposite sex by Grade 10.

  • Young people generally tend to have friends of a different sex by Grade 10.

opposite-sex (adjective)

Examples and solutions
Gendered sentence Inclusive solutions

Opposite-sex couples responded to a survey on household chores.

  • Different-sex couples responded to a survey on household chores.

outdoorsman; outdoorswoman (noun)

Examples and solutions
Gendered sentence Inclusive solutions

An outdoorsman usually likes hiking.

  • An outdoors person usually likes hiking.
  • An outdoorsy person usually likes hiking.
  • A lover of the outdoors usually likes hiking.
  • A nature lover usually likes hiking.

P

penmanship (noun)

Examples and solutions
Gendered sentence Inclusive solutions

Before the era of technology, elegant penmanship was prized.

  • Before the era of technology, elegant handwriting was prized.
  • Before the era of technology, elegant calligraphy was prized.

policeman; policewoman (noun)

Examples and solutions
Gendered sentence Inclusive solutions

The policeman took statements from the witnesses.

  • The police officer took statements from the witnesses.
  • The officer took statements from the witnesses.

postman; postwoman (noun)

Examples and solutions
Gendered sentence Inclusive solutions

The postman delivered a parcel today.

  • The mail carrier delivered a parcel today.
  • The letter carrier delivered a parcel today.

R

repairman; repairwoman (noun)

Examples and solutions
Gendered sentence Inclusive solutions

We called a repairman to fix the furnace.

  • We called a repairperson to fix the furnace.
  • We called a service technician to fix the furnace.
  • We called a maintenance person to fix the furnace.
  • We called a maintenance specialist to fix the furnace.

S

salesman; saleslady, saleswoman (noun)

Examples and solutions
Gendered sentence Inclusive solutions

The door-to-door salesman was a more common figure in the past.

  • The door-to-door salesperson was a more common figure in the past.
  • The door-to-door sales representative was a more common figure in the past.
  • The door-to-door sales agent was a more common figure in the past.

seaman; seawoman (noun)

Examples and solutions
Gendered sentence Inclusive solutions

The old seaman was full of tall tales about life on the sea.

  • The old mariner was full of tall tales about life on the sea.
  • The old sailor was full of tall tales about life on the sea.
  • The old seafarer was full of tall tales about life on the sea.

The Royal Canadian Navy is recruiting seamen.

  • The Royal Canadian Navy is recruiting sailors.Footnote 1

seamstress (noun)

Examples and solutions
Gendered sentence Inclusive solutions

A talented seamstress can work without a pattern.

  • A talented sewer can work without a pattern.
  • A talented tailor can work without a pattern.
  • A talented sewist can work without a pattern.
  • A talented garment maker can work without a pattern.
  • A talented garment worker can work without a pattern.
  • A talented alterations specialist can work without a pattern.
  • A talented alterations person can work without a pattern.
  • A talented textile artist can work without a pattern.
  • A talented fabric artist can work without a pattern.
  • A talented needleworker can work without a pattern.
  • A talented garment alterationist can work without a pattern.
  • Someone skilled at sewing can work without a pattern.
  • Someone skilled at altering clothes can work without a pattern.

serviceman; servicewoman (noun)

Examples and solutions
Gendered sentence Inclusive solutions

In case of problems, the company will send a serviceman.

  • In case of problems, the company will send a maintenance person.
  • In case of problems, the company will send a maintenance specialist.
  • In case of problems, the company will send a service person.
  • In case of problems, the company will send a service technician.
  • In case of problems, the company will send a technician.

Servicemen are paid according to their pay group, rank and time in rank.

  • Soldiers are paid according to their pay group, rank and time in rank.
  • Armed forces members are paid according to their pay group, rank and time in rank.
  • Service members are paid according to their pay group, rank and time in rank.
  • Service personnel are paid according to their pay group, rank and time in rank.

showman; show-woman (noun)

Examples and solutions
Gendered sentence Inclusive solutions

A talented showman knows how to captivate the audience.

  • A talented entertainer knows how to captivate the audience.
  • A talented performer knows how to captivate the audience.

showmanship (noun)

Examples and solutions
Gendered sentence Inclusive solutions

The critics praised the performer’s showmanship.

  • The critics praised the performer’s skills.
  • The critics praised the performer’s entertainment skills.
  • The critics praised the performer’s stage presence.
  • The critics praised the performer’s ability to command the audience.

signalman (noun)

Examples and solutions
Gendered sentence Inclusive solutions

The signalman gave directions to the crane operator by means of hand signals.

  • The signaller gave directions to the crane operator by means of hand signals.
  • The signal person gave directions to the crane operator by means of hand signals.

A signalman is in charge of battlefield communications.

  • A signaller is in charge of battlefield communications.
  • A signal operator is in charge of battlefield communications.

sir (noun)

Examples and solutions
Gendered sentence Inclusive solutions

Dear Sir:

  • Dear Morgan Jones:
    (when the receiver’s name is known)
  • Dear Morgan:
    (when the receiver’s name is known, and the context is less formal)
  • Dear Parts Manager:
    (when the receiver’s name is unknown)
  • To Whom It May Concern:
    (when the receiver is unknown)
  • Dear Tenant:
    (for a form letter)

Good evening, Sir.

  • Good evening.

sister (noun)

Examples and solutions
Gendered sentence Inclusive solutions

The child was picked up from school by an older sister.

  • The child was picked up from school by an older sibling.

sisterhood (noun)

Examples and solutions
Gendered sentence Inclusive solutions

A feeling of sisterhood united the group.

  • A feeling of camaraderie united the group.
  • A feeling of comradeship united the group.
  • A feeling of friendship united the group.
  • A feeling of togetherness united the group.
  • A feeling of harmony united the group.
  • A feeling of kinship united the group.
  • A feeling of solidarity united the group.
  • A feeling of oneness united the group.

son (noun)

Examples and solutions
Gendered sentence Inclusive solutions

The parents must give approval for their son to participate.

  • The parents must give approval for their child to participate.

songstress (noun)

Examples and solutions
Gendered sentence Inclusive solutions

Songstress k.d. lang is best known for the album Ingénue.

  • Singer k.d. lang is best known for the album Ingénue.

spokesman; spokeswoman (noun)

Examples and solutions
Gendered sentence Inclusive solutions

The spokesman for the group was interviewed on television.

  • The spokesperson for the group was interviewed on television.
  • The representative for the group was interviewed on television.

sportsmanship (noun)

Examples and solutions
Gendered sentence Inclusive solutions

Athletes must demonstrate sportsmanship.

  • Athletes must demonstrate a sense of fair play.
  • Athletes must demonstrate fairness and integrity.
  • Athletes must demonstrate honourable behaviour.

statesman; stateswoman (noun)

Examples and solutions
Gendered sentence Inclusive solutions

A statesman must demonstrate virtue as well as ability.

  • A statesperson must demonstrate virtue as well as ability.

steward; stewardess (noun)

Examples and solutions
Gendered sentence Inclusive solutions

A stewardess helped the passenger.

  • A flight attendant helped the passenger.

T

toastmaster; toastmistress (noun)

Examples and solutions
Gendered sentence Inclusive solutions

The toastmaster introduced the first speaker.

  • The moderator introduced the first speaker.
  • The presenter introduced the first speaker.

tradesman; tradeswoman (noun)

Examples and solutions
Gendered sentence Inclusive solutions

The tradeswoman was working at the construction site.

  • The tradesperson was working at the construction site.
  • The builder was working at the construction site.
  • The plumber was working at the construction site.
  • The electrician was working at the construction site.

W

waiter; waitress (noun)

Examples and solutions
Gendered sentence Inclusive solutions

The waiters and waitresses were courteous and efficient.

  • The servers were courteous and efficient.
  • The waitpersons were courteous and efficient.
  • The wait staff were courteous and efficient.

watchman (noun)

Examples and solutions
Gendered sentence Inclusive solutions

Hiring a watchman will discourage break-ins.

  • Hiring a guard will discourage break-ins.
  • Hiring a security guard will discourage break-ins.

weatherman; weatherwoman (noun)

Examples and solutions
Gendered sentence Inclusive solutions

The weatherman called for rain.

  • The weathercaster called for rain.
  • The weather forecaster called for rain.
  • The weather presenter called for rain.
  • The weather personality called for rain.
  • The meteorologist called for rain.
  • The weather forecast called for rain.

wife (noun)

Examples and solutions
Gendered sentence Inclusive solutions

What is your wife’s contribution to family income?

  • What is your spouse’s contribution to family income?
  • What is your partner’s contribution to family income?
  • What is your life partner’s contribution to family income?
  • What is your significant other’s contribution to family income?

woman doctor (noun phrase)

Examples and solutions
Gendered sentence Inclusive solutions

A woman doctor administered the vaccine.

  • A doctor administered the vaccine.
  • A physician administered the vaccine.
  • A medical practitioner administered the vaccine.

woman of action (noun phrase)

Examples and solutions
Gendered sentence Inclusive solutions

The chief executive officer was a woman of action.

  • The chief executive officer was a person of action.
  • The chief executive officer was an achiever.
  • The chief executive officer was a go-getter.
  • The chief executive officer was a human dynamo.
  • The chief executive officer was a dynamo.
  • The chief executive officer was a fireball.
  • The chief executive officer was a powerhouse.

woman of letters (noun phrase)

Examples and solutions
Gendered sentence Inclusive solutions

Margaret Atwood is renowned woman of letters.

  • Margaret Atwood is a renowned author.
  • Margaret Atwood is a renowned poet.
  • Margaret Atwood is a renowned novelist.
  • Margaret Atwood is a renowned writer.
  • Margaret Atwood is a renowned literary figure.

The faculty member was a noted woman of letters.

  • The faculty member was a noted scholar.
  • The faculty member was a noted academic.

workman (noun)

Examples and solutions
Gendered sentence Inclusive solutions

The workman shall wear properly fitted goggles at all times.

  • The worker shall wear properly fitted goggles at all times.
  • The employee shall wear properly fitted goggles at all times.

Y

yes-man; yes-woman (noun)

Examples and solutions
Gendered sentence Inclusive solutions

A wise boss doesn’t appreciate a yes-man.

  • A wise boss doesn’t appreciate an employee who always agrees.
  • A wise boss doesn’t appreciate an employee who never disagrees.
  • A wise boss doesn’t appreciate an employee who never criticizes.
  • A wise boss doesn’t appreciate an employee who never gives critical feedback.

The party leader was labelled as a yes-woman.

  • The party leader was labelled as a yes-person.
  • The party leader was labelled as someone who never says “no.”
  • The party leader was labelled as someone who always says “yes.”
  • The party leader was labelled as someone who says “yes” to everything.
  • The party leader was labelled as someone who agrees to everything.
  • The party leader was labelled as someone who never disagrees with anything.

Avoid creating a team of yes-men and yes-women by allowing employees to voice their opinions.

  • Avoid creating a team of yes-people by allowing employees to voice their opinions.

young man; young woman (noun phrase)

Examples and solutions
Gendered sentence Inclusive solutions

A young man must learn to shoulder responsibility.

  • A young person must learn to shoulder responsibility.
  • A teenager must learn to shoulder responsibility.
  • An adolescent must learn to shoulder responsibility.
  • A youth must learn to shoulder responsibility.

Employment rates for young men and women fell substantially.

  • Employment rates for young people fell substantially.
  • Employment rates for young persons fell substantially.
  • Employment rates for youth fell substantially.
  • Employment rates among youth fell substantially.
  • Youth employment rates fell substantially.

Additional information

Copyright notice for Writing Tips Plus

© His Majesty the King in Right of Canada, represented by the Minister of Public Services and Procurement
A tool created and made available online by the Translation Bureau, Public Services and Procurement Canada

Search by related themes

Want to learn more about a theme discussed on this page? Click on a link below to see all the pages on the Language Portal of Canada that relate to the theme you selected. The search results will be displayed in Language Navigator.