SCHOOL OF SOCIAL SCIENCES, EDUCATION AND

SOCIAL WORK

A critical analysis of the implementation of gender-neutral

language in Portuguese as an inclusive policy within Brazilian society.

Luis Amisterdan Germano da Silva

March 5, 2024

Dr Aisling O’Boyle
School of Social Sciences, Education & Social Work
Master of Science - M.Sc. TESOL
Contemporary Issues in Applied Linguistics (EDU7301)
Queen’s University Belfast
 A critical analysis of the implementation of gender-neutral
language in Portuguese as an inclusive policy within Brazilian society.

Gender-neutral language policies have been a topic of controversy in Brazil. The

purpose of these policies is to encourage a more inclusive communication environment for
individuals with diverse gender identities. This involves avoiding gendered words and
grammatical structures perpetuating the traditional male/female binary and using more
inclusive vocabulary and structures instead. Supporters argue that this approach challenges
the deeply ingrained cisheteronormativity present in conventional grammar and speech, which
could create a more welcoming communication space for non-binary and transgender
individuals who have long been marginalised. However, opponents believe these sweeping
changes to an entire language are unnecessary and extreme. A careful analysis reveals that the
adoption of neutralised Portuguese is fraught with complex sociocultural tensions and raises
essential questions about the nature of language and its impact on society.
In recent years, there has been a growing movement advocating for gender-neutral
language. This movement seeks to replace traditional masculine and feminine word endings
with more inclusive forms such as 'x' and '@' and to use 'e' as a gender-neutral article and
pronoun. These linguistic changes aim to increase the visibility and recognition of gender
diversity and to create a more inclusive language environment. The ultimate goal is to
dismantle binary language structures that reinforce gender norms and create more positive
social attitudes towards gender differences. It is believed that this movement can contribute to
a broader societal shift towards greater acceptance and respect for all genders by challenging
traditional language norms.
The roots of using neutral language to promote inclusivity can be traced back to
academic circles, where it was developed primarily by white, affluent intellectuals. However,
it is crucial to acknowledge that implementing inclusive language policies without input and
involvement from directly impacted communities, including marginalised groups like
LGBTQIA+ individuals, may seem patronising. Therefore, ensuring that these linguistic
modifications are implemented thoughtfully, thoroughly, and respectfully is paramount,
considering all individuals and groups' unique needs and perspectives.
Additionally, given the centrality of grammatical gender and gendered lexicon within
Portuguese, wide-scale neutral language adoption rates face steep challenges. From
pronunciation difficulties surrounding innovative symbols like ‘x’ and ‘@’ to accusations that
gender-inclusive adjustments diminish clarity and readability while fracturing shared
conventions, the widespread backlash against extensive neutral language implementation is
robust. Critics also argue such measures emphasise superficial word changes rather than
dismantling underlying societal discrimination and violence that enable the marginalisation of
non-binary people.
In summary, although the effort to adopt Portuguese as a means of promoting
inclusivity is admirable, the approach taken thus far highlights a clash between centralised
directives and the natural evolution of language within communities. Imposing language
policies alone will not suffice in generating a meaningful and sustainable cultural shift
without simultaneously fostering awareness and empowering individuals. It is thus imperative
to engage in ongoing and productive dialogue among policymakers, academics, and
LGBTQIA+ communities to identify modifications that can strike a balance between
inclusivity and accessibility as an integral component of a broader push towards equality.