Avoid using masculine pronouns (he, his, and him) for generic references that could apply to either gender. Instead, edit in one of the following ways:
Every candidate for the scholarship must submit his application by June 1.
Every candidate for the scholarship must submit his or her application by June
1.
Candidates for the scholarship must submit their applications by June 1.
Every candidate for the scholarship must submit an application by June 1.
Although using the plural pronoun their to refer to an indefinite singular antecedent is becoming common in speech ("Every doctor has their specialty"), this usage is not acceptable in most written work.
Use terms such as humans or the human race instead of man and mankind, and find substitutes for most occupational designations that include the word man.
UNACCEPTABLE | ACCEPTABLE |
---|---|
man, mankind | humans, the human race, people |
mailman, postman | mail carrier, postal worker |
policeman, fireman | police officer, firefighter |
businessmen | business executives, business people |
congressmen | members of congress, state representatives |
councilmen | council members |
spokesman | representative, advocate |
chairman | chair, chairperson |
Early man was shorter and stockier than mankind today.
Early humans were shorter and stockier than people today.
Local businessmen have contributed to funds for the aid of injured firemen and
policemen.
The local business community has contributed to funds for the aid of injured firefighters
and police officers.
Finally, do not include information that indicates a person's sex unnecessarily, and treat the titles of men and women comparably.
Terry Harris, a well-known female productivity consultant, will advise the committee
headed by Mr. Todd Sui.
Terry Harris, a well-known productivity consultant, will advise the committee headed by
Todd Sui.