So I’ve realized that in conversations I’ll use traditional terms for men as general terms for both genders, both singularly and for groups. I always mean it well, but I’ve been thinking that it’s not as inclusive to women/trans people.
For example I would say:
“What’s up guys?” “How’s it going man?” "Good job, my dude!” etc.
Replacing these terms with person, people, etc sounds awkward. Y’all works but sounds very southern US (nowhere near where I am located) so it sounds out of place.
So what are some better options?
“Buddy” is gendered?
i only use buddy for dogs and puppies
Yep. It’s a name for teen boys or for men that are significantly younger than the speaker. Typically said by men rather than women too.
No one says “Hey buddy” to a teen girl, or to a woman a couple of decades younger than them