| This study examines sociolinguistic and conceptual aspects of eMs.f, focusing on the deterministic viewpoint originating in the Sapir-Whorf Hypothesis, i.e. the theory that language influences our world view. In this prospect, the creation of positive words for women and the elimination of sexist words are supported. Therefore, adopting the title eMs.f which is marriage-neutral is an example of a new word created to effect the change of the concept of womenfs role, i.e. their being recognized as individuals, rather than being identified by their relationship with a man.
However, eMs.f has not been regarded as a complete replacing form for eMrs.f and eMiss,f but as an alternative when eMrs.f and eMissf are not appropriate or marriage status is unknown. At least the invention of eMs.f has solved or provided an option to the problem of inequality of eMr.f versus eMrs.f and eMiss.f eMs.f has caused social change to some extent. Yet, for eMs.f to be substantially accepted, fundamental social change may have to occur.
|