The Mudcat Café TM
Thread #161323   Message #3832475
Posted By: BobL
14-Jan-17 - 04:00 AM
Thread Name: Lyr Req: Gender-neut lyrics for One Man's Hands?
Subject: RE: Lyr Req: Gender-neut lyrics for One Man's Hands?
Don't forget that words like "man" have two meanings, one of which is gender-inclusive and one isn't. As with other words with different meanings, it's up to reader/listener to determine which one is intended. If they can't tell the difference, shame on them - this is PRIMARY SCHOOL stuff, at least it was when I was taught it.

Incidentally "hand" is another polyseme (look it up!) but is it gender-specific when referring to a manual worker?