4 Everyday Sexist Phrases We Should Stop Using RN!

A quick refresher: sexism means stereotyping or discrimination, typically against women, based on sex. You already know that sexism is rampant in every field (makes an exasperated sound), what is even more upsetting is the blatant acceptance and normalization of this prejudice.

But here's the thing: language—the things we say, usually without even thinking—plays an important role in reinforcing sexism.

 

Here are 4 sexist phrases many of us unknowingly use in everyday parlance...and can we all just agree to put a stop to these RN.

 

1. 'She Works Like a Man'

Her co-workers and fans maintain that Katrina Kaif is one hardworking actor. Acknowledging this trait, Hrithik Roshan had ‘complimented’ Katrina, saying, ‘She works like a man’. Which makes us feel, erm, rather prickly. Attributing 'hard work' to men implies that dudes are superior to women, and reduces the latter to being less capable of going the extra mile.

 

2. 'Man Up'

If we had a 100 bucks for every time someone said this, we'd we strutting down the street with a new 'It' bag.

'Man Up' is an expression that has a plethora of interpretations and, sadly, all of them are sexist. Telling a guy to ‘man up’ when he is feeling vulnerable or unable to cope with a situation implies one is weak. And men are not supposed to be weak because weakness is considered a feminine attribute. (Hello, 1820s?!)

All genders are capable of being strong and vulnerable, both emotionally and mentally, and these qualities aren’t exclusive to one gender. Let’s not promote the culture of toxic masculinity by using this chauvinistic phrase.

 

3. ‘Boys Will Be Boys’

Of course, you’ve heard this one. Probably because it is such a darn cliché. ‘Boys will be boys’ isn’t just an outdated expression, it’s also dangerous because it immediately justifies all kinds of bad, male behaviour. Think, cheating, aggression, crossing boundaries, not seeking consent… ‘Boys will be boys’ basically infers that guys can’t help their behaviour, as if it’s a generic trait. It normalizes sexism by inferring ‘that’s just what they do’.

The truth is that every adult is responsible for his (and her) own actions, irrespective of gender.

 

4. ‘Who Wears the Pants?’

While we may be progressing towards gender-neutral fashion (this season is ripe with power suits for men and women!), this question relates to not just power, control, and so-called masculine traits, but also devalues the contributions that the significant other makes in household chores.

 

As the famous English author, Laura Bates, rightly says, “This is a battle that we will win. Because women are wittier, brighter, stronger and braver than a misogynistic and patriarchal world has given us credit for.”

While we’re climbing those ladders and working towards making the world more femme-friendly, let’s also make a conscious attempt to make our conversations more gender-neutral.