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Article published In: Australian Review of Applied Linguistics
Vol. 48:2 (2025) ► pp.199–223

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Does gender-fair language matter?

Views from Filipino professional writers in English

ORCiD logo with link | University of Santo Tomas, The Philippines
Published online: 8 October 2024
DOI logo with link
https://doi.org/10.1075/aral.24023.tar
Abstract
Gender-fair language (GFL), a linguistic practice that aims to avoid gender bias or discrimination by using gender-inclusive terms, has been increasingly recognized in various contexts. Despite this growing recognition, the question of how Filipinos view the use of GFL in the workplace remains underexplored. The present study contributes to this evolving discourse by investigating the perceptions of Filipino professional writers in English toward GFL, an area that has received relatively little attention in the literature, particularly in more restrictive cultural contexts such as the Philippines. Using a qualitative survey with 34 Filipino professional writers, ten of whom participated in follow-up email interviews, I examine the views of these writers on GFL and the aspects that influence them in using GFL in writing. The findings demonstrate that while GFL is seen as positive for social change, practical and contextual considerations affect its use. Factors that facilitate GFL adoption are identified, such as confidence and awareness, commitment to gender equality, and professional growth. In contrast, hindering factors include cultural and ideological resistance, practical and linguistic challenges, and the lack of comprehensive GFL guidelines and resources.
Article outline
  • 1.Introduction
    • 1.1Gendered and gender-fair language in the workplace
  • 2.Method
    • 2.1Research design
    • 2.2Participants
    • 2.3Data collection and analysis
  • 3.Findings
    • 3.1Views on GFL
      • 3.1.1GFL as a conscious effort to make language more inclusive and respectful
      • 3.1.2GFL as a way to challenge gender norms and biases
    • 3.2Perceptions toward incorporating GFL in professional writing
      • 3.2.1GFL as an advocacy for inclusivity
      • 3.2.2GFL as an evolving and acceptable language for social transformation
      • 3.2.3Contextual and pragmatic considerations in GFL use
    • 3.3Aspects influencing GFL use in professional writing
      • 3.3.1Facilitating factors in incorporating GFL in professional writing
        • 3.3.1.1Favoring factors
          • 3.3.1.1.1Confidence in one’s knowledge and awareness of GFL (including self-evaluation)
          • 3.3.1.1.2Commitment to allyship for gender equality
        • 3.3.1.2Legitimating factor
          • 3.3.1.2.1Adopting GFL as part of one’s professional and personal growth
      • 3.3.2Hindering factors in incorporating GFL in professional writing
        • 3.3.2.1Cultural and ideological resistance
        • 3.3.2.2Practical and linguistic challenges
        • 3.3.2.3Lack of comprehensive resources and guidelines for using GFL
  • 4.Discussion
  • 5.Conclusion
  • Disclosure statement
  • References
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