Sexist language is language that excludes one sex or the other, or suggests that one sex is superior to the other. It unnecessarily identifies gender and reinforces stereotypes and assumptions about gender roles. Examples of sexist language include:

• Using a pronoun that denotes a single sex when the information being conveyed pertains equally to either or both sexes. For example, using "he" to refer to all students, when both male and female students are present.
• Using a job title that links the job to a single sex when either sex can perform the job. For example, using "fireman" instead of "firefighter".
• Using a single sex pronoun in conjunction with a neutral job title, so that the implication is that the job "belongs" to a single sex. For example, using "the nurse awoke her patient" instead of "the nurse awoke the patient".
• Any other use of language that unnecessarily and arbitrarily makes gender distinctions. For example, using "early man" instead of "early humans".

To avoid sexist language, one can use gender-neutral language gracefully and unobtrusively. Here are some tips:

• Change singular nouns to plurals and use a gender-neutral pronoun, or try to avoid the pronoun entirely.
• Use terms such as "humans" or "the human race" instead of "man" and "mankind".
• Find substitutes for most occupational designations that include the word "man".
• Avoid using "man" as a noun when you are really referring to people of both sexes.
• Use both a masculine and a feminine pronoun, such as "him or her" (but avoid "him/her") .
• Make the antecedent and the pronoun plural, making other changes as necessary.

Its important to avoid constructions that will offend readers enough to distract them from the writing. While it may seem awkward and unfamiliar at first, using gender-neutral language can help to create a more inclusive and respectful environment.