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Sexism Education 's definitions

Difficult

When applied to a woman, difficult relates to the idea that women are impractical for having high expectations for themselves and others. When we call a woman difficult, we could be saying: “She’s asking me to challenge myself and I’m not comfortable with a woman doing that”. Words like decisive or determined are more positive ways to describe female colleagues.
He noticed that his female colleague didn’t live to please others. Instead of labelling her a ‘difficult woman’, he respected her ability to say no.
by Sexism Education March 6, 2022
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Bubbly

Bubbly is used to describe a woman who is outgoing, friendly and funny. Rather than using those words (as you would for a man), saying ‘bubbly’ is a way to subtly demean these admirable qualities in a woman.

Bubbly is best used to describe a bottle of champagne rather than a female colleague’s personality. Gendered language can affect women’s confidence and ability to be themselves in the workplace.
He stopped using the word bubbly to describe his female colleagues, when he learned it was a consolation-prize compliment.
by Sexism Education March 6, 2022
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Sassy

Sassy is used to describe women who are quick-witted and clever. Instead of praising these qualities, which are celebrated in men, people are often quick to undermine women for stepping outside of their ‘lane’ with sarcastic and quirky comments.
He wondered why his female colleague didn’t laugh when he called her ‘sassy pants’.
by Sexism Education March 6, 2022
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