Skip to content

Sexist Speech: Definition, Usage, and Examples

    ✅ Definition of Sexist Speech

    Sexist Speech (noun)
    Pronunciation: /ˈsɛksɪst spiːʧ/

    Meaning:
    Speech that demeans, excludes, or stereotypes people based on gender. It includes jokes, remarks, or statements that imply one gender is inferior or only suited to certain roles.


    ✅ Grammatical Formation

    • Part of speech: Compound noun (uncountable)
    • Plural: Rarely pluralized; speak of “instances of sexist speech”

    Common verbs:

    • use sexist speech
    • avoid sexist speech
    • challenge sexist speech
    • condemn sexist speech
    • monitor for sexist speech

    ✅ Synonyms

    gender‑biased speech, discriminatory speech, chauvinistic speech, misogynistic speech, androcentric speech


    ✅ Antonyms

    inclusive speech, equitable speech, respectful speech, non‑discriminatory speech, unbiased speech


    ✅ Related Terms

    • Sexist language – words or phrases that reflect gender bias
    • Hate speech – abusive language targeting protected groups
    • Harassment – hostile or offensive comments
    • Microaggressions – subtle, often unintentional, discriminatory remarks
    • Inclusive communication – respectful language that includes all genders

    ✅ Explanation in Simple Sentences

    1. Sexist speech is when someone talks down to others because of their gender.
    2. Telling a woman she “should smile more” is an example of sexist speech.
    3. Jokes that mock men for showing emotion are also sexist speech.
    4. Recognizing sexist speech helps you choose kinder, more inclusive words.
    5. Asking “Did that comment come across as sexist speech?” shows awareness.

    ✅ Common Collocations

    • avoid sexist speech
    • use of sexist speech
    • examples of sexist speech
    • impact of sexist speech
    • challenge sexist speech
    • monitor sexist speech

    ✅ Idiomatic Usage & Expressions

    • “He was called out for sexist speech when he joked that women can’t drive.”
    • “Training helps employees avoid sexist speech in customer interactions.”
    • “Academics analyze how sexist speech shapes workplace culture.”
    • “She challenged his sexist speech in the meeting by asking for an apology.”

    ✅ Sample Sentences

    1. The manager apologized after his sexist speech about female colleagues surfaced online.
    2. Schools teach students to identify and correct sexist speech in everyday conversations.
    3. Podcast hosts often discuss how sexist speech can slip into casual banter.
    4. The campaign urged the public to call out sexist speech when they hear it.
    5. By replacing jokes with respectful remarks, comedians can avoid sexist speech.