##  [Inclusionary: A collection of gender-inclusive solutions](/writing-tips-plus/inclusionary)

## Avertissement

Du contenu semblable en français est présenté à la page [Inclusionnaire : recueil de solutions inclusives](/fr/cles-de-la-redaction/ecriture-inclusive-inclusionnaire).

Pour plus d’information sur l’écriture inclusive en français, veuillez consulter la page [Écriture inclusive – Lignes directrices et ressources](/fr/cles-de-la-redaction/ecriture-inclusive-lignes-directrices-ressources).

## Section: Inclusive writing

Go to the main page of this section: [Inclusive writing – Guidelines and resources](inclusive-writing-guidelines-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](inclusive-writing-guidelines-resources#guidelines).

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](about-inclusionary) page.

Help us improve the Inclusionary by filling out the [suggestion form](#centred-popup).

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.

[ Top of page](#wb-cont "Top of page") [ Suggestion form](#centred-popup "Suggestion form") [ User guide](#user-guide "User guide") [ Contextual Menu](# "Menu")

## Search in the Inclusionary index

print t('Navigation menu providing access to the glossary terms, arranged in alphabetical order.'); ?

- [A](#lettre-letter-A)
- [B](#lettre-letter-B)
- [C](#lettre-letter-C)
- [D](#lettre-letter-D)
- [F](#lettre-letter-F)
- [G](#lettre-letter-G)
- [H](#lettre-letter-H)
- [I](#lettre-letter-I)
- [J](#lettre-letter-J)
- [L](#lettre-letter-L)
- [M](#lettre-letter-M)
- [N](#lettre-letter-N)
- [O](#lettre-letter-O)
- [P](#lettre-letter-P)
- [R](#lettre-letter-R)
- [S](#lettre-letter-S)
- [T](#lettre-letter-T)
- [W](#lettre-letter-W)
- [Y](#lettre-letter-Y)

Show allHide all

## 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. |

#### See also

[cowboy; cowgirl (noun)](inclusionary?page=9924799255#notion-99255)

### 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. |

#### See also

[man on the street (noun phrase)](inclusionary?page=9925399316#notion-99316)

### 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. |

#### See also

[cattleman; cattlewoman (noun)](inclusionary?page=9925599247#notion-99247)

### 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. |

#### See also

[woman doctor (noun phrase)](inclusionary?page=9926799413#notion-99413)

### 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. |

#### See also

[jack-of-all-trades; jill-of-all-trades (noun)](inclusionary?page=9928999293#notion-99293)

### 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. |

#### See also

[handyman; handywoman (noun)](inclusionary?page=9929399289#notion-99289)

### 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. |

#### See also

[postman; postwoman (noun)](inclusionary?page=9930399372#notion-99372)

### 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. |

#### See also

[mankind (noun)](inclusionary?page=9930899328#notion-99328)

### 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**. |

#### See also

[common man (noun phrase)](inclusionary?page=9931699253#notion-99253)

### 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)](inclusionary?page=9932899308#notion-99308)

### 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](/en/writing-tips-plus/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 **ombuds**[Footnote 1](#fn1-ombudsman) negotiated an agreement. |

#### Note

Note 1

The plural form of both **ombuds** and **ombud** is **ombuds**: “The two **ombuds** met to discuss the policy change.”

[Return to reference note 1](#fn1-rf-ombudsman)

### 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. |

#### See also

[mailman; mailwoman (noun)](inclusionary?page=9937299303#notion-99303)

## 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](#fn1-seaman) |

#### Note

Note 1

In 2020, the Royal Canadian Navy decided to replace the traditional term **seaman** with the gender-neutral term **sailor** in titles of ranks.

[Return to reference note 1](#fn1-rf-seaman)

### 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. |

#### See also

[female doctor (noun phrase)](inclusionary?page=9941399267#notion-99267)

### 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

- [Inclusive writing – Guidelines and resources](inclusive-writing-guidelines-resources)
- [Inclusive writing: Glossary](inclusive-writing-glossary)
- [Guide on Equity, Diversity and Inclusion Terminology](/fr/publications/equite-diversite-inclusion-equity-diversity-inclusion-fra)
- [About the Inclusionary](about-inclusionary)
- [Inclusionnaire : recueil de solutions inclusives](/fr/cles-de-la-redaction/ecriture-inclusive-inclusionnaire) (in French only)

##  Avis de droit d’auteur pour l’outil Writing Tips Plus

© Sa Majesté le Roi du chef du Canada, représenté par le ou la ministre des Services publics et de l’Approvisionnement
Un outil créé et mis en ligne par le Bureau de la traduction, Services publics et Approvisionnement Canada

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## Liens connexes

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- [Outils d’aide à la rédaction](/fr/outils-tools/index-fra)
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