Inclusive Language

Intermediate 👥 Human Resources

Definition

The practice of using terminology that doesn't exclude people based on identity, gender, or other characteristics—or at least making a visible effort to try before someone emails 47 corrections.

Example Usage

The director updated all our templates to use inclusive language like 'they/them' and 'chairperson' instead of 'chairman'.

Origin

Emerged from diversity and inclusion movements in the 2010s

Fun Fact

Organizations that actively use inclusive language see measurably higher retention rates among underrepresented groups.

Source: Diversity and inclusion terminology

Related Terms

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