Dr. Vijay Garg
Language is one of the most powerful tools of human communication. It reflects our thoughts, values, upbringing and attitude towards others. The way we speak reveals not only our education but also our level of social awareness and cultural maturity. Unfortunately, in many societies, everyday language still contains expressions that insult, humiliate and undermine the dignity of women. This raises an important question: Can a society truly call itself educated and civilised when its everyday language continues to disrespect women?
One of the most disturbing features of common abusive language is that many insults are directed towards a person’s mother, sister or daughter, even when these women have nothing to do with the disagreement. During arguments between two men, women are frequently dragged into the exchange of abusive words. The person being insulted may be a man, but the language used often targets the dignity of an unrelated woman. This reflects a deep-rooted patriarchal mindset in which a woman’s identity and dignity are wrongly associated with the honour of male family members.
The irony is that women are respected and worshipped in many cultural and religious traditions, yet insulting expressions involving women are casually used in everyday conversations. We celebrate motherhood, honour daughters and speak proudly about women’s contributions to society, but our language often contradicts these values. This contradiction exposes the gap between what we preach and what we practise.
Abusive language is sometimes justified in the name of anger, humour, friendship or informal conversation. Many people argue that such expressions are merely habits and should not be taken seriously. However, repeated use of insulting language gradually makes disrespect appear normal. When people laugh at derogatory remarks about women instead of questioning them, they indirectly encourage a culture of humiliation.
The influence of language on children is particularly significant. Children learn not only from textbooks but also by observing the behaviour of parents, relatives, teachers and other adults. If they regularly hear women being insulted through abusive expressions, they may begin to consider such language acceptable. Gradually, these habits can influence their attitudes towards women and relationships. Therefore, the responsibility for promoting respectful language begins at home and continues through schools and society.
Educational institutions have an important role in addressing this issue. Education should not be limited to academic knowledge, examinations and professional qualifications. It must also develop character, empathy, gender sensitivity and respect for human dignity. Teachers should encourage students to express disagreement without using insulting words. Discussions about equality, mutual respect and responsible communication should become an essential part of value-based education.
Parents also need to understand that children often imitate the language they hear at home. If family members use abusive expressions casually, advising children to speak respectfully becomes ineffective. The best way to teach good language is to practise it consistently.
Social media, films and entertainment platforms also influence everyday communication. Sometimes abusive expressions are presented as signs of humour, confidence or masculinity. Such portrayals can strengthen harmful social attitudes, particularly among young people. Content creators, filmmakers and public personalities should recognise their responsibility in promoting dignified communication.
It is equally important to understand that respecting women does not mean restricting criticism or disagreement. Every individual has the right to express opinions, question decisions and disagree with others. However, criticism should focus on a person’s actions and ideas rather than using gender-based insults or dragging family members into personal disputes.
Men, in particular, must recognise that insulting another man’s mother, sister or daughter does not demonstrate courage or superiority. True strength lies in controlling one’s emotions, communicating responsibly and respecting every individual. Women should not have to depend on their relationship with a man to receive dignity. Every woman deserves respect in her own right.
Changing this culture requires collective effort. We must consciously remove degrading expressions from our vocabulary, discourage abusive behaviour in public places and encourage children to communicate with dignity. Schools, families, media organisations and community leaders must work together to create an environment where respectful language becomes a social norm rather than an exception.
Ultimately, the real measure of a person’s education is not merely the degrees displayed on a wall but the respect reflected in everyday behaviour. A society may achieve remarkable scientific and economic progress, but its development remains incomplete if women continue to face humiliation through ordinary language.
Words may be invisible, but their impact is powerful. They can either strengthen relationships or destroy dignity. If we want to build a truly educated, progressive and civilised society, we must begin by changing the way we speak. Respect for women should not remain limited to slogans, speeches and celebrations; it must become an inseparable part of our everyday language and behaviour.
Dr. Vijay Garg Retired Principal | Educationist & Eminent Scientist Street Kaur Chand, MHR Malout, Punjab – 152107 |
