Children are curious about the world around them. They see different people, hear new words, and ask questions all the time. One of the ways to help them understand the basic difference we have as humans is understanding common gender.

The English language comprises a vast vocabulary and complex grammatical rules. Understanding all the rules, anomalies, and variations is essential to gain command over this language. In this article, we will discuss what is common gender?We will also explore neuter gender along with some examples.

What are genders?

In the English language, nouns and pronouns have genders. They are categorized as masculine, feminine, common, or neuter. Masculine gender denotes nouns or pronouns classified as male. For example, man, boy, father, brother, lion, horse, fox, etc. Feminine gender denotes nouns or pronouns classified as female. For example, woman, girl, mother, sister, lioness, mare, vixen, etc.

What is common gender?

Common gender refers to a noun that could either be a male or a female.  As the name says, it is common between both genders or used for both masculine and feminine gender.

Some common gender examples are:

• Friend
• Neighbor
• Teacher
• Pupil
• Artist
• Child
• Doctor
• Writer
• Musician
• Dancer
• Employee
• Servant
• Enemy
• Thief

These nouns can either be male or female. Let’s say, if you are discussing a writer, you simply say writer, who can either be a male or a female.

We use common gender at times when we don’t want to address someone with their gender but only their profession.

For example, a lot of women feel that there are many male-dominated professions that use the term ‘female’ additionally for identification.

Female cricketer, female photographer, are often terms that create an obvious distinction showcasing how some professions are unconventional for women.

In such cases, it is useful and respectful to use common gender to address someone without specifying male or female.

For example, if we say “my friend is coming over,” the term ‘friend’ fits both boy and girl.

It is also important to acknowledge that the gender we are born with can be distinct from the one feel.

While some feel neither, others can feel different from the gender they were born with.

Nowadays, common gender is best denoted as “they” or “them.” These terms are used even while addressing one person and not multiple people.

What is neuter gender?

Neuter gender denotes nouns that are not classified as males or females. It generally refers to non-living things. Vague terms, collective terms, and abstract notions also fall under this gender category. 

Neuter gender examples are:

• Table
• Umbrella
• City
• Pencil
• Chair
• Fruit
• Hair
• Necklace
• Radio
• Window
• Train
• Scissors
• Strength
• Freedom

Difference between common gender and neuter gender 

As nouns and pronouns categorized under common and neuter genders are not classified as masculine or feminine, learners often get confused between them.

The best way to understand the difference between common and neuter gender is by remembering that common genders can either be male or female, but neuter gender strictly encompasses non-living and non-specific objects.

Neuter gender nouns are denoted with the “it” pronoun. 

Why this matters?

Genders help us categorize nouns and pronouns and provide clarity and ease in communication. Understanding all types of genders is necessary to master the English language. 

Teaching children about gender diversity helps them grow up to be thoughtful, respectful, and inclusive. It shows them that everyone is unique, and that is something to be proud of.