So Iβve realized that in conversations Iβll use traditional terms for men as general terms for all genders, both singularly and for groups. I always mean it well, but Iβve been thinking that itβs not as inclusive to women/trans people.
For example I would say:
βWhatβs up guys?β βHowβs it going man?β "Good job, my dude!β etc.
Replacing these terms with person, people, etc sounds awkward. Yβall works but sounds very southern US (nowhere near where I am located) so it sounds out of place.
So what are some better options?
Edit: thanks for all the answers peoples, I appreciate the honest ones and some of the funny ones.
The simplest approach is to just drop the usage of guys, man, etc. Folks for groups and mate for singular appeal to me when I do want to add one in between friends.
Iβm also on Team βthese words have lost their meaningβ but often feel opposite to OPβs intent
When people go out of their way to force inclusive language to a degree that feels unnatural, and especially when Iβm the only trans person in the room, it feels like Iβm being singled out for my identity. Itβs extra uncomfortable when they make (often incorrect) assumptions about my body while doing so.
That said, I will also never fault someone for trying to be inclusive, and ofc always respect other peopleβs preferences.
