Suggestions For Using Gender Sensitive  Language In The Armed Forces:Women And Military Ranks Cover Image

Suggestions For Using Gender Sensitive Language In The Armed Forces:Women And Military Ranks
Suggestions For Using Gender Sensitive Language In The Armed Forces:Women And Military Ranks

Author(s): Svenka Savić
Subject(s): Gender Studies
Published by: BCBP Beogradski centar za bezbednosnu politiku
Keywords: Serbian language; gender-sensitive language; theory of language performance; language usage

Summary/Abstract: The aim of this paper is to give an overview of the present situation regarding gender-sensitive Serbian language, which has not been standardised yet, and to offer elements for future dialogue about the language standardisation process. In this paper, I – I. present the characteristics of two theories: structuralism and the theory of language performance; II. give rules for practical usage within the framework of the theory of language performance and look at dilemmas that may arise regarding this issue; III. offer a model of research on the use of feminine gender forms for military ranks in the Serbian language in order to encourage future continued study of language norms in the Serbian armed forces. In conclusion, I emphasise the necessity for comprehensive research on current practice in the armed forces regarding various forms of standard language usage: in administrative work (business correspondence, regulations, rules of procedure, etc.); in education (at military schools and colleges: in textbooks, reference books, etc.); in the media (job advertisements and other forms of public announcements); in everyday spoken communication.

  • Issue Year: 2011
  • Issue No: 19
  • Page Range: 46-57
  • Page Count: 12
  • Language: English