The Gender of Nouns and Pronouns is a crucial topic for Class 7 students, helping them understand how gender affects language usage. This includes identifying masculine, feminine, common, and neuter nouns and correctly using corresponding pronouns. Through examples and exercises, students can master this essential grammar skill.
Definition of Gender of Nouns and Pronouns in English Grammar
In grammar, gender refers to the classification of nouns and pronouns based on sex or characteristics traditionally associated with sex. These categories typically include masculine, feminine, common, and neuter genders. Each gender has its specific pronouns and forms that help define and refine meaning in sentences.
Historical Context and Evolution of Gender of Nouns and Pronouns in Language
The concept of gender in language has evolved over time. While many ancient languages had strict gender rules, modern languages are increasingly adopting gender-neutral terms to reflect contemporary values and inclusivity. Understanding the historical context of gender usage can provide insights into its current application and future trends.
The Role of Gender of Nouns and Pronounsin Different Languages
Different languages handle gender in various ways. For example, in languages like Spanish and French, nouns have inherent genders, and the corresponding articles and adjectives must agree with the noun’s gender. In contrast, English has a more flexible approach, using gender primarily for pronouns and some specific nouns.
Types of Gender in Nouns
a. Masculine Gender
Definition and Examples
Masculine gender typically refers to male entities. In English, examples include:
Man
Boy
King
Father
Bull
Cock
Usage in Sentences
The king gave a speech to his subjects.
A boy and his dog were playing in the park.
b. Feminine Gender
Definition and Examples
Feminine gender refers to female entities. Examples include:
Woman
Girl
Queen
Mother
Cow
Hen
Usage in Sentences
The queen attended the ceremony with her entourage.
Sometimes ‘he’ is used when the gender of an animal is unknown. Look at the squirrel. How fast does he climb the tree? How quickly he climbed the tree!
Many people refer to cars and motorbikes as ‘she.’ Sailors often call boats and ships ‘she,’ but most people use ‘it.’
“How’s your new car?” “Excellent. She’s running beautifully.”
The ship fell in a storm and sank.
Using ‘she’ for countries is common, but ‘it’ is more prevalent in modern English.
Gender of Inanimate Things:
Inanimate objects are typically referred to using the neuter gender. However, when they are personified—meaning they are presented as if they are living or animate—they can be referred to using masculine or feminine terms.
Miscellaneous :
MASCULINE
FEMININE
MASCULINE
FEMININE
bridegroom victor widower master
bride victrix/victress widow miss
nobleman Mr. hero masseur
noble lady Mrs. heroine masseuse
Gender-Specific Nouns
Human-related Nouns
Certain nouns specifically denote gender in humans. For instance:
Actor (male) and Actress (female)
Waiter (male) and Waitress (female)
Gender-Specific Titles
Mr. (male) and Mrs. or Ms. (female)
Animal-related Nouns
Animal names often have gender-specific terms as well:
Rooster (male) and Hen (female)
Stallion (male) and Mare (female)
Occupational Nouns
Traditional Gender-Specific Roles
Occupational nouns can also be gender-specific, though modern usage is shifting towards gender-neutral terms:
Policeman (male) and Policewoman (female)
Fireman (male) and Firewoman (female)
Modern Usage
Police Officer (gender-neutral)
Firefighter (gender-neutral)
Gender-Neutral Language
Importance of Gender-Neutrality
Using gender-neutral language is essential in promoting equality and inclusivity. It helps avoid bias and assumptions based on gender.
Strategies for Using Gender-Neutral Language
Use plural forms: Instead of “his or her,” use “their.”
Use neutral terms: Replace “chairman” with “chairperson.”
Use job titles without gender: Instead of “fireman,” use “firefighter.”
Examples of Gender-Neutral Terms
Spouse instead of husband or wife
Parent instead of mother or father
Siblings instead of brothers or sisters
Common Mistakes and Confusions
Gender Agreement Errors
Errors in gender agreement occur when the gender of the noun does not match the gender of the pronoun.
Incorrect: “Every student must bring his pencil.”
Correct: “Every student must bring their pencil.”
Misuse of Gender-Neutral Terms
Misusing gender-neutral terms can also cause confusion. Ensure the terms fit naturally within the context.
Cultural Differences in Gender Usage
Different cultures have unique approaches to gender in language. Understanding these differences can enhance cross-cultural communication.
Exercises and Practice
Exercise 1:
1. Write the feminine gender of the following:
(i) King
(ii) Bachelor
(iii) Pratul is my
(iv) Uncle
(v) Bull-
(vi) Heir
(vii) Dog –
(viii) Horse
(ix) Gentleman
Exercise 2:
2. Fill in the blanks with the correct gender:
(i) Pratul is my ……….. (sister/brother).
(ii) This is the colt of a ……….. (horse/mare).
(iii) A ……….. (tiger/tigress) gave birth to a cub.
(iv) Latika is our ……….. (instructor/instructress).
(v) She is a ……….. (launderer/laundress).
(vi) Mrs. Bhosle is a ……….. (millionaire/millionaress).
Exercise 3:
3. Write (M) for masculine (F) for feminine. (C) for common and (N) for neuter in the spaces provided:
(ii) Brother
(iii) Dog
(iv) Child
(v) Actress
(i) Cup
Exercise 4:
4. Rewrite the sentences after changing the gender:
(i) He was the emperor,
(ii) She is a shepherdess.
(iii) Mr. Peter is a monk.
(iv) She is a salesgir
Exercise 5:
5. Find pairs for the words and write them in the spaces provided:
(i) Lad-
(ii) Grand-father-
(iii) Nephew- -.
(iv) Sir-
Exercise 6:
6. Write the feminine form of the following nouns.
king, sir, dog, father, son, lad, boy, bull, ox, poet, actor, lord, son-in-law, grand father, grand son, pappa, gentleman, cock.
Exercise 7:
7. Find out the Masculine, Feminine, Common Neuter Gender from the folloing nouns and put in the right box:
