People often use “female” and “woman” or “women” interchangeably. It is probably because people think they mean almost the same thing. But they are not quite the same, and it is not right to use them interchangeably as if they are. Let us try to decode the ‘Women vs Females’ debate and why the choice of words matters.
In certain misogynistic groups, the term “females” is used intentionally to strip away the humanity and individuality of women. That makes them seem less than human. While “female” is grammatically correct, using it in this way often reveals prejudiced or bigoted views about women. It is a subtle yet sexist way of showing disrespect without being obvious about it. Ironically, it is not widely acceptable to call men “males,” but referring to women as “females” is often seen as just fine.
The bigotry behind calling women ‘Females’
According to Merriam-Webster, “female” is a term used in scientific contexts to describe someone’s ability to produce eggs or bear young. It’s a biological label that focuses only on reproductive capabilities. If you look just at the literal meaning, it seems inoffensive. However, using “female” to refer to women often comes with a layer of bigotry and malice. It reduces women to just their biological functions, focusing only on their ability to reproduce.
“Female” could refer to anything, not just people. Your pet might be a female, too. “Woman” is a term that’s specifically for humans. So, calling women “females” makes it sound like they’re no different from animals and are somehow less important than men. It reduces their value to just their biology and ignores everything that makes them uniquely human. By reducing women to just their ability to reproduce, it dehumanises them. It ignores the experiences of those who cannot have children, as well as people who are trans or don’t fit traditional gender norms.
Using “female” is acceptable in medical or scientific contexts, like when talking about the female reproductive system. It helps to be specific and accurate in these fields. But outside of these contexts, labelling women as “female” can feel impersonal and demeaning.
Women vs Females: Isn’t it time to drop “Femaleness” from job titles?
Ever noticed how we never say “male scientist” or “male pilot”? But “female scientist” or “female pilot” rolls off the tongue easily. It is like all the promising professions are default male territory, making it seem like women in these roles are exceptions. If someone keeps reminding you that you’re a “female” something, you start wondering why it’s so necessary to mention gender. It’s almost like saying, “Hey, don’t forget, you’re the odd one out here!”
Robin Lakoff, a linguistics professor at the University of California at Berkeley, says that stressing femaleness in roles like artist or politician implies a woman is out of place. It subtly suggests that men are the default choice for these roles and women are somehow different or unnatural for being there.
It is worth asking if this focus on gender is really necessary or if it simply perpetuates outdated views about gender roles.
The final thoughts
The word “female” is starting to act like a dog whistle for people who hold prejudiced views about independent women or believe that men should control women. Using “woman” instead of “female” is more inclusive. “Woman” includes everyone who identifies as a woman, not just those with a specific biological sex. This means it respects and recognises transgender women and others who feel they are women, regardless of their biology. After all, if we can remember to use the word “men”, indeed, we can manage “women.”
Disclaimer: The views expressed in this article are based on the writer’s insights, supported by data and resources available both online and offline, as applicable. Changeincontent.com is committed to promoting inclusivity across all forms of content, which we define broadly to include media, policies, law, and history—encompassing all elements that influence the lives of women and gender-queer individuals. Our goal is to promote understanding and advocate for comprehensive inclusivity.
