Writing lasts, once it is published it cannot easily be altered, so writers (and the editors helping them) need to use words with precision, care and sensitivity. They need to know that their writing choices can shape perceptions, influence beliefs, and impact communities. Conscious language use is about writing with awareness, respect and intention. Writers need clarity over conscious language and understanding of the practical impact of including it in our writing.
What Is Conscious Language?
Conscious language is thoughtful, deliberate communication that considers the impacts of our words may have on different communities and individuals. It’s about intelligently choosing words that respect human dignity, acknowledge diversity, and avoid perpetuating stereotypes or causing unintended harm.
Language is dynamic and evolves alongside our understanding of human experiences. What was acceptable decades ago might not reflect our current awareness of different perspectives and identities. This change isn’t about restricting expression and is about expanding our ability to communicate accurately and respectfully.
Why Conscious Language Matters
Writing anything, but particularly long form, a writer may be thinking that there is enough to getting a first draft complete. That idea is encapsulated in a quote from Alain de Botton: ‘To become a proper writer, you have to forgive yourself the catastrophe of the first draft.’
However, beyond that the self-editing and editing work of redrafting and creating subsequent drafts can be where more attention to conscious language will improve the writing in several ways.
Building Trust with Readers
When a reader find they are reading language that diminishes or misrepresents their experiences, they will feel something negative and are likely to disengage. By using conscious language, we create an inclusive space where diverse audiences feel seen and respected, or at least do not feel the opposite (unseen and disrespected). This trust is essential to keep the trust of readers and to build meaningful connections with them.
Accuracy and Precision
A conscious language focus when writing or editing is likely to lead to more precise writing. Instead of relying on outdated generalizations or assumptions, the writing becomes more specific about our meaning. This precision not only improves our writing but also helps readers better understand our message.
Social Responsibility
To some extent writers and editors are cultural custodians. The language we use today can influence how future generations will think and communicate about different groups and experiences. Our writing can show others what we think and how we think. By choosing conscious language, we contribute to positive social change and greater connection between people. Remember that you are writing for a modern readership.
Practical Conscious Language Use
Here are some practical ways to embed a conscious language approach to writing and editing:
People-First Language
Mention the person first. Consider the difference between ‘diabetic person’ and ‘person with diabetes’. People-first language acknowledges that individuals are more than their conditions or circumstances – not just numbers. However, be aware that some communities prefer identity-first language (e.g., many in the Deaf community prefer ‘Deaf person’ to ‘person who is deaf’).
Gender-Inclusive Language
Simply be aware that where a gendered term is being used and replace those suitable neutral alternatives: e.g.
- mankind → humanity or humankind
- businesswoman → business executive
- chairman → chair or chairperson
Use ‘they’ as a singular pronoun when gender is unknown or irrelevant. Avoid assumptions about gender roles in examples and scenarios.
Cultural Sensitivity
Be even handed in your treatment of cultural groups. So:
- Capitalize racial, ethnic and cultural identifiers (Black, Indigenous, Asian)
- Avoid idioms that have discriminatory origins
- Be specific about cultural references rather than using broad generalizations
- Only refer to cultural elements if they are relevant to your content
Ability and Disability
Be even handed in your treatment of people. So:
- Focus on the person, not the condition
- Avoid inspiration porn or portraying people with disabilities as either victims or superheroes
- Use neutral language that describes situations factually
- Follow the preferred terminology of disability communities with sensitivity
Implementing Conscious Language in Your Writing
Awareness is an important starting point so research areas which you may be less confident about.
Start with Self-Education
Initially acknowledging that we all have biases and blind spots brings the enquiring mindset we need for researching conscious language. Commit to ongoing learning about different communities and their preferred terminology. Follow diverse voices in your reading, read style guides from various organizations, and stay current with evolving language preferences.
Create Style Guidelines
As a writer you may like to develop your own language preferences into a style guide. As an editor you may have a set of style guides which you develop to work with different authors.
Update your style guide(s) to include conscious language principles. This might include:
- lists of preferred terms and terms to avoid
- preferences for guidance on describing different communities
- resources for fact-checking and consultation
- your own processes for updating guidelines as language evolves
Seek Input and Feedback
Comprehensive knowledge of all the conscious language options is not necessary. However, an open mindset to select appropriate conscious language words and phrases is important.
- Consult with sensitivity readers when you are writing about experiences outside your own
- Build relationships with diverse communities
- Create ways to gather reader feedback early in the writing process
- Be open to learning from mistakes and making corrections
- Maintain transparency in your commitment to conscious language
Common Challenges and Solutions
‘But they used to talk like that!’
Some may resist conscious language as unnecessary or restricting. Help them see that language shapes thinking and experience. Share examples of the importance of thoughtful word choice and how improved communication has a positive impact.
Fear of Making Mistakes
‘You may worry about getting it wrong. Remember that conscious language use is a journey, not a destination. Create an environment where learning from mistakes is encouraged and constructive feedback is welcomed.
Balancing Authenticity and Sensitivity
Writers might worry that conscious language will make their writing feel unreal or inauthentic. That then is the challenge – to maintain the conscious language and not be offensive to the modern reader whilst incorporating the meaning you seek to put across in your writing. With practice, conscious language becomes natural and enhances rather than restricts creativity.
Moving Forward
Conscious language use is an essential skill for modern writers and editors. It’s about evolving our writing craft to meet the needs of an increasingly diverse and connected world. By embracing conscious language, we:
- Create more inclusive and welcoming writing and stories
- Improve the precision and impact of our writing
- Contribute to positive social messages
- Build stronger connections with our readers
Start where you are, stay open to learning, and keep moving forward. Your commitment to conscious language will make you a better writer and contribute to a more thoughtful, inclusive experiences for your readers.
What steps will you take today to make your writing more conscious and inclusive? Get in touch and let me know.
Resources https://consciousstyleguide.com/