An Analysis of Sexism in English

Abstract

Language plays an important role in society. As a phenomenon of society, language reflects all the sides of human society naturally. Sexism in language has long been a heat topic in sociolinguistics. By looking at the sexism in English and relating it to the relevant linguistic theories, this paper tries to make an analysis of sexism in the use of language through comparison, induction and exemplification. The purpose is to disclose some of the features of English language that suggest cultural biases and socially unjust attitudes towards women. The study will help us to have a better understanding of the relationship between language and society.