An Analysis of Sex Differences and Sexism in English Language 浅析英语语言中的性别差异与性别歧视.docVIP

An Analysis of Sex Differences and Sexism in English Language 浅析英语语言中的性别差异与性别歧视 Ⅰ.Introduction As the peculiar result of the development of human society, language is a kind of social phenomenon and reflects all the sides of human society naturally. The both are closely linked with the social attitudes of human beings and to a great extent are affected by the social views and values. We have perceived that men dominate life in society, especially in some important positions, such as politics, language and so on .Unavoidably, the kind of phenomenon has been bias-based and women suffered from language sexism. Sex differentiated language use can reflect and help perpetuate the subordinate status of women in society. Since 1960s, feminists strive for the elimination of gender discrimination, for the greater recognition of women’s contributions to society and aim to change many cultural and social customs that perpetuate patriarchal value systems. Many fields of life around the world have been, or are being, affected by this movement. One of the much feminism on society is its impact on language. Language is a mirror, which can reflect the society phenomenon. Therefore, through the language, we can know even if women’s status has been improved, there still exists sexism. From the use of sex, women still keep subordinate status in society. Ⅱ.Sex Differences in English Language 2.1 Embodiment of Sex Differences In English and in many other languages throughout the world, speeches of women and men vary in various aspects. This section will demonstrate sex differences in English language from four aspects: phonology and intonation, lexicon, syntax and speech styles. 2.1.1 In Phonology and Intonation 2.1.1.1 Phonological Differences Phonological differences between the speech of men and women have been noted in a variety of languages. In a northeast Asian language, Yukaghir, both women and children have /ts/ and /dz/ where men have /tj/ and /dj/. Similarly, in a Siberian la