Can you say “female”?

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Using the pronoun “she” and female identity
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Should you say “girl,” “woman,” or “female”? The choice of words may seem simple… but is it really? In what context is each term appropriate? Because although they may seem similar, these terms are not interchangeable. Let’s dive into this trio of words to understand what they really mean and why it’s important to use them correctly.

Can you say “female”?

The word “female” refers to a person or animal of the female sex, from a purely biological point of view. For example, we would say “the female cat” or “a female chimpanzee.”

In French, it is quite obvious that we almost never use female to refer to a human being. But be careful: with the influence of English and social media, the word “female” sometimes appears in our French vocabulary, especially in translations or expressions imported from English-language content.

In English, it is common to use the word female when referring to an adult person, even though it can be sensitive and impersonal depending on the context. When this word is translated into French as a noun, “une femelle,” it takes on a connotation that can seem dehumanizing, as it unconsciously likens the person to an animal. Even though it has been imported from English, it is therefore best to avoid using it when referring to women or girls.

Can you say “Girl”?

The word “girl” refers to a person with a female gender identity or sex who has not yet reached adulthood. In Quebec, the legal age of adulthood is set at 18. Therefore, from birth until 17 years and 364 days, the term “girl” will be used.

We use “girl” to refer to age or stage of development, but also sometimes to speak affectionately. For example, when talking about one’s children or romantic relationships, one might say “my daughter” or “a young girl.” The difference here is that we are not in a work context, but a personal one.

When talking about a work context, it is important not to use “girl” to refer to an adult, as this infantilizes the person and can diminish their authority, credibility, or role in a social or professional context. For example, referring to an adult colleague as “the marketing girl” or “my little girl” at the office can give the impression that she is not being taken seriously or that she is considered less experienced than she actually is.

Can you say “Woman”?

The word “woman” is used to refer to a person with a female gender identity or sex who is an adult, i.e., 18 years of age or older. Unlike “girl,” “woman” indicates maturity, adult status, and, often, social or professional independence.

Using “woman” correctly recognizes the autonomy and dignity of the person you are talking to or about, especially in a work context.

Why does it matter?

At first glance, confusing “girl” and “woman” may seem harmless (female, a little less so!). After all, the intention is not always bad, but words are never neutral. They convey ideas, power relations, and deeply rooted social norms. And in some contexts, using the wrong term can have very real consequences.

By referring to a girl as a “young woman” or “woman,” we erase her status as a child and the protections that come with it. This can trivialize deeply problematic situations, such as power dynamics, sexual violence, or early marriage. Just think of child stars and how they are described in the media. Calling things by their proper names also means recognizing that a girl is a child, period. And that she deserves to be protected as such.

Conversely, referring to adult women as “girls,” especially in a professional context, may seem familiar or friendly… but it isn’t always. Saying “the girls in HR” or “the girl in accounting” infantilizes women and minimizes their expertise, authority, and role.

In a workplace setting, this type of language can reinforce the idea that women are less serious, less competent, or less legitimate than their male colleagues. We rarely talk about “the guys in management” in the same way, and that’s no accident.

Ultimately, referring to a person as “a female” is to present them as a body before they are a human being. This type of language is often used in misogynistic, pseudo-scientific, or deliberately dehumanizing discourse. Even when used without malicious intent, it remains loaded with meaning and can be hurtful.

A recent example that shows this is not insignificant

A recent example illustrates very well why these nuances in vocabulary really matter. After the US men’s hockey team won the Olympic Games, Donald Trump mentioned during a call to the locker room that he was obliged to invite the women’s team (which had also won gold) or risk being impeached.

The remark was very poorly received by the public, but what followed was just as revealing. In several reactions and comments surrounding the controversy, including the men’s team’s live response on television, the female players were repeatedly referred to as “the girls,” whereas their male counterparts were simply referred to as “the men’s team” or “the men.”

This choice of words is not neutral. Calling professional athletes who have won gold medals “girls” contributes to symbolically diminishing them, reducing them to a childish or secondary image, even when they achieve exactly the same accomplishments (or even more!).

This example clearly shows that words do not just describe reality: they shape it. And that, even at the highest level of sport, continuing to refer to women as “girls” is never harmless.

Finally, what you need to remember

Distinguishing between “girl,” “woman,” and “female” is not about policing language. It is about recognizing that words carry weight, that they can protect or trivialize, value or diminish. By choosing the right terms, we contribute to conversations that are more accurate, more respectful, and more aware of the realities experienced by women and girls, especially in a context such as International Women’s Day (March 8).

And before you write to us saying, “Yes, but what about men?”, don’t worry! A version of this article dedicated to the terms used to refer to men is also planned. Because words matter to everyone, and we always benefit from better understanding what we say and why we say it.

Coming soon!

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