The rise of social media has brought increased attention to the language we use to refer to and describe individuals.Does it seem overwhelming at times? Yes! But the issue reflects a broader societal movement toward better inclusivity and respect. A better world for all, so to speak.

Over on Instagram’s sister platform, Threads, I somehow ignited a heated discussion (and an outcry from the red pill and what I can only assume are incel communities) after sharing my opinion on the use of the term “female(s).”

Granted, at first glance, the word appears to be a harmless synonym or noun to describe a girl or woman. But closer inspection reveals how this word, when used in certain contexts, can appear derogatory and misogynistic. And let me fucking tell you why.

Context!!!

Obviously, the word “female” itself is not a bad word. For example, we have male and female toilets, male and female tick boxes on professional forms, and male and female categories in competitive sports – and that’s okay! The key element to this argument is context. Something many people were unable to grasp in the comments on my post.

Language isn’t just about the words we use but also the connotations they carry. “Female” is typically used in a clinical and detached manner – it is cold and impersonal when used in social and professional contexts. It simply strips us women of identity and diminishes us all the way down to our sex.

Reducing us to our basic biology

In scientific contexts, the term “female” it is usually used to refer to the sex of an organism without implying any form of characteristics. And the same goes for “male”… (duh). When applying the term “female” to women in every conversation, to put it simply, you are reducing us to our reproductive abilities, stripping us off any human identity that would include personality, life experiences, and all the things that make us who we are as people. We are more than just our reproductive capabilities.

Side note: my argument stands for trans women, also! This is not a place for your transphobic bullshit.

Implied and outright objectification

I’ve seen a lot of guys use “female” as a way to subtly undermine a woman’s worth and identity. Or sometimes, use it in place of the word “bitch”, like that is somehow better and we won’t catch on. Basically, it perpetuates this insane mindset where women are seen as objects as opposed to complete, autonomous individuals with human characteristics.

And another thing, using the term “female” as a way to refer to women can contribute to gender bias and stereotyping. I’ve noticed it mostly in situations where a woman’s physical attributers are being discussed – bonus points if it’s an attribute that is often sexualised. Anyway, it reinforces outdated ideologies and only enforces objectification.

Respect and Equality

So men, to be a well-rounded and respected individual, we encourage you to recognise that respectful and inclusive language is the cornerstone of equality. Here, we demonstrate respect for the people we are talking to or about. And simply using “woman” in the place of “female” is a very simple but powerful way to show respect and recognise our equal status in today’s society. Affirm our humanity, and please, respect our individuality.

We are not just “females” – we are women.