Understanding Gender in Portuguese
Portuguese, like many Romance languages, assigns gender to nearly every noun and adjective. The masculine form typically ends in “-o” (for example, amigo for “friend” if male), while the feminine ends in “-a” (amiga for “friend” if female). Plural forms are also gendered, and articles (such as o for masculine and a for feminine) must agree with the noun’s gender.
Why Gender-Neutral Language Matters
Gender-neutral language is vital for inclusivity, ensuring that everyone—regardless of their gender identity—feels seen and respected. As awareness grows, so does the demand for strategies to make Portuguese more accommodating, especially in educational and professional settings.
Common Approaches to Gender Neutrality in Portuguese
There is no single solution, but several approaches have gained traction among Portuguese speakers and learners. Here are the most common:
1. Using Both Masculine and Feminine Forms
The traditional method is to list both masculine and feminine forms, such as “amigos e amigas” (“friends,” male and female). While inclusive, this can be cumbersome in longer texts or speech.
2. The “@”, “x”, and “e” Alternatives
To avoid binary gender endings, some people use symbols like “@” or “x” (for example, “amig@s” or “amigxs”). However, these forms are not pronounceable and are mainly used in written digital communication.
More recently, the “-e” ending has gained popularity, especially in Brazil. For instance, “amigue” is used instead of “amigo” or “amiga”. This form is both pronounceable and visually distinct, making it a favorite among younger speakers and LGBTQ+ communities. However, it is important to note that this usage is not officially recognized by language academies and is more common in informal contexts.
3. Neutral Words and Phrasing
Whenever possible, you can choose gender-neutral vocabulary already present in the language. For example, use “pessoa” (person), “indivíduo” (individual), or “estudante” (student), which are words without gendered endings. In some cases, you can rephrase sentences to avoid gender entirely.
4. Inclusive Job Titles and Roles
In professional environments, there is a growing trend to use neutral terms when referring to positions or roles. For instance, instead of “presidente” (which is already neutral), or “professor/professora”, organizations might opt for “docente” (instructor/faculty), which does not change based on gender.
Practical Tips for Learners
- Be aware of your audience: In formal writing or when speaking with traditional speakers, stick to standard masculine and feminine forms.
- Use inclusive alternatives in informal contexts: If you’re in a progressive or young community, experimenting with “-e” endings or neutral words can show respect and inclusivity.
- Stay updated: Language evolves quickly. Follow Portuguese-speaking LGBTQ+ communities, activists, and news sources for the latest trends in gender-neutral language.
- Ask for preferences: If you’re addressing a group or individual, don’t hesitate to ask which pronouns or forms they prefer.
Current Challenges and Considerations
While these strategies are gaining popularity, they are not without controversy. The Real Academia da Língua Portuguesa and other language institutions have not officially adopted neutral endings like “-e”. Some educators, writers, and public institutions are slow to embrace these changes, citing grammatical rules and tradition. However, language is a living entity and often adapts faster in everyday speech than in official documentation.
Why This Matters for Portuguese Learners
For anyone studying Portuguese, especially through platforms like Talkpal, understanding gender-neutral language is not only a matter of grammar but also of cultural competency. It enables you to participate in modern conversations, understand diverse communities, and express yourself respectfully in a variety of settings.
Conclusion
Embracing gender-neutral language in Portuguese is both a challenge and an opportunity for learners. As you build your skills, remember to stay adaptable and open to new forms of expression. Whether you’re using traditional forms, experimenting with “-e” endings, or seeking out neutral vocabulary, your efforts contribute to making the Portuguese language more inclusive for everyone. For more tips on modern Portuguese and inclusive communication, keep following the Talkpal AI language learning blog.
