Gender and language refers to the ways in which language reflects, reinforces, or challenges societal norms related to gender. Research shows that men and women may use language differently, with women often employing more collaborative and polite speech, while men may use more assertive and competitive styles. These differences can be influenced by cultural expectations and socialization. Additionally, language can shape perceptions of gender through the use of gendered terms and pronouns. For instance, the use of masculine generics, such as he or man, can perpetuate male dominance in language. Efforts to promote gender-neutral language, such as using they as a singular pronoun, aim to create more inclusive communication.