Culturally Sensitive and Bias-Free

Language
 Just as important as awareness of the
existence of the World Englishes, is that of
practicing cultural sensitivity.
 To write in a culturally sensitive way means to

be aware that cultural differences and

similarities between people exist and that
these should not be assigned a positive or
negative value via words and description
selected in writing.
 Academic and professional writings are
characterized by bias-free lanuage.
 Students, scholars, professionals, and anyone

wishing to maintain harmonious

communicative relations should be careful in
using words and phrases that do not
discriminate against particular groups,
whether in terms of race, ethnicity, gender,
social class, age, and disability.
 The essential point is to communicate in a
way that is respectful of diversity.
General Principles to Follow :
1. Race and Ethnicity
Racism is a form of discrimination against a
person or persons of a different race.
in general, it is best to avoid identifying people
by race or ethnic group.
Race is an emotionally charged topic, so it is
best to tread carefully with the language used
and to refer to race.
 Patricia Arinto asserts in English for the
Professionals, “only if it is relevant to what
you have to say.”