freshman and freshwoman

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Fujibei
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Joined: Sat Jan 30, 2010 12:34 am
Status: Teacher of English

freshman and freshwoman

Post by Fujibei »

It seems that "freshman" is used for both male and female first-year college students.
In this age of political correctness, isn't it offensive to female students?
How about "freshwoman?" Is it ever used?
hermit
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Joined: Tue May 19, 2009 11:00 pm
Status: Teacher of English

Re: freshman and freshwoman

Post by hermit »

So far "freshwoman" has not come into use - but languages evolve, so it's possible...
Fujibei
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Posts: 11
Joined: Sat Jan 30, 2010 12:34 am
Status: Teacher of English

Re: freshman and freshwoman

Post by Fujibei »

Thanks for your info.
clevermae
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Joined: Wed Nov 18, 2009 6:10 am
Status: Learner of English

Re: freshman and freshwoman

Post by clevermae »

Well, if it's an informal conversation and you are referring to a woman, just say "freshie". That's what I always do.
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