The Influence of Feminism and LGBTQ+ Movements on Language Change in English: The Expansion of Gender-neutral Language

Abstract

In the last few decades, the debate on the use of gender-neutral or gender-inclusive language has gained more and more prevalence in many fields. The origins of the endorsement of the use of this type of language are very much intertwined with the feminist movement and the emergence of queer studies in the 1990s. However, gender-neutral language has always faced opposition from certain sectors of society who deem it unnecessary and/or a corruption of language. In spite of such resistance, in the last two decades, there has been a shift in society’s opinion on gender-neutral language. The purpose of this dissertation is to explore the relationship between the feminist and LGBTQ+ movements and the expansion of gender neutral-language in the English language. The interest on this topic rises from a personal interest on how society’s gender construct is transmitted through language and how it can affect gender minorities and oppressed genders. Additionally, the exponential growth in the last few years, mainly in social media and amongst young people, of the promotion and use of gender-neutral has also arouse a personal interest on its history and possible benefits. For the purpose of investigating the aforesaid matters, this dissertation will first provide a theoretical background based on relevant investigations and theories on the topics. All the information will be gathered from pertinent books and webpages. Then, a small corpus search will be realised with a view to investigate if there has been an increase in the use of gender-neutral terms.