Definitions by Sexism Education
Bossy
Bossy is a patronising way to describe a woman who takes up space and speaks her mind. Women in leadership are always at risk of being branded ‘bossy’ and the use of this word can deter women from seeking positions of authority.
Beyoncé explained, “I’m not bossy. I’m the boss”, as part of the 2014 Ban Bossy campaign which addressed the confidence gap between young girls and boys and aimed to encourage girls to lead.
Beyoncé explained, “I’m not bossy. I’m the boss”, as part of the 2014 Ban Bossy campaign which addressed the confidence gap between young girls and boys and aimed to encourage girls to lead.
He realised that the bossy young girl displayed the same qualities as the little boy being praised as a natural leader.
Bossy by Sexism Education March 6, 2022
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.
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.
Bubbly by Sexism Education March 6, 2022
Feisty
Feisty is a condescending way to describe a woman who has an opinion and is determined to achieve her goals.
It’s uncommon for CIS men to be described as ‘feisty’ due to society’s unconscious bias towards how men and women should act. In their guide to improving the media coverage of females, the Women’s Media Centre lists ‘feisty’ as one of the words that should be avoided, describing it as “normally reserved for individuals that are not inherently powerful”.
It’s uncommon for CIS men to be described as ‘feisty’ due to society’s unconscious bias towards how men and women should act. In their guide to improving the media coverage of females, the Women’s Media Centre lists ‘feisty’ as one of the words that should be avoided, describing it as “normally reserved for individuals that are not inherently powerful”.
Feisty by Sexism Education March 6, 2022