Interpersonal Communication- A Mindful Approach to Relationships, 2020a

types of improper language: vulgarity and cursing. First, vulgarity includes language that is offensive or
lacks good taste. Often, vulgar is lewd or obscene. Second, cursing is language that includes evil, doom,
misfortune on a person or group. It can also include curse or profane words. People might differ in their
perceptions about improper language.
Biased Language
is language that shows preference in favor of or against a certain point-of-view, shows
prejudice, or is demeaning to others. 30 Bias in language is uneven or unbalanced. Examples of this may
include “mankind” as opposed to “humanity.”
Avoid
Black Attorney
Businessman
Chairman
Cleaning Lady / Maid
Male Nurse
Male Flight Attendant or Stewardess
Female Doctor
Manpower
Congressman
Postman
Forefather
Policeman
Fireman
Disabled
Schizophrenic
Homosexual
Table 4.3 Biased Language
Consider Using
Attorney
Businessperson, Business Owner, Executive,
Leader, Manager, etc.
Chair or Chairperson
Cleaner, Cleaning Person, Housecleaner,
Housekeeper, Maintenance Worker, Office
Cleaner, etc.
Nurse
Flight Attendant
Physician or Doctor
Personnel or Staff
Legislator, Member of Congress, or Member
of the House of Representatives
Postal Employee or Letter carrier
Ancestor
Police Officer / Law Enforcement Officer
Firefighter
People with Disabilities
Person Diagnosed with Schizophrenia
Lesbians, Gay Men, Bisexual Men or Women
One specific type of biased language is called spin, or the manipulation of language to achieve the
most positive interpretation of words, to gain political advantage, or to deceive others. In essence, people
utilizing spin can make language choices that frame themselves or their clients in a positive way.
Ambiguous Language
is language that can have various meanings. Google Jay Leno’s headlines videos.
Sometimes he uses advertisements that are very abstract. For instance, there is a restaurant ad that says,
“People are our best ingredient!” What comes to mind when you hear that? Are they actually using
people in their food? Or do they mean their customer service is what makes their restaurant notable?
When we are trying to communicate with others, it is important that we are clear in our language. We
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Interpersonal Communication