The Subtle Power of Names: Language, Gender, and Authority
Picture this: You’re in a boardroom. The meeting starts, and the men are introduced as “Mr. Singh” or “Dr. Mehta,” while the women are introduced as “Priya” or “Ananya.”
If you pay close attention, this pattern often repeats itself — men addressed by their last names, women by their first.
It might seem trivial, even unworthy of a second thought. But language is never neutral. The way we use it has the power to uphold existing structures, reinforce biases, and, in this case, quietly reinforce gender inequality.
The Subtle Power of Names
Last names carry weight. They’re markers of respect, authority, and sometimes even legacy. They draw a clear line of professionalism. On the other hand, first names suggest intimacy, warmth, and familiarity.
When we consistently address men with the authority of their last names but switch to first names for women, we send a clear, albeit unconscious, message: Women belong more in the personal sphere than in the professional one.
This Isn’t Just in Your Head — Research Confirms It
Academia
An analysis of more than 4,500 reviews on the site Rate My Professors showed that students were 56% more likely to refer to male professors by their last names than their female counterparts. Women, even those with advanced degrees and expertise, were much more likely to be addressed informally by their first names.
Politics
A study examining how political pundits are referenced on radio shows found that men are more frequently called by their last names, while women are introduced with both their first and last names or just their first names. This pattern continues even when the women are equally or more qualified than their male counterparts.
This discrepancy isn’t about comfort or casualness. It’s about power. It reinforces the authority of men while quietly undermining the legitimacy of women.
Why Does It Matter?
Language influences how we perceive the world. Being referred to by your last name grants a sense of authority, professionalism, and respect. It signals that you belong in that space — whether it’s the boardroom, the classroom, or the political stage.
On the flip side, consistently addressing women by their first names diminishes their professional credibility. It frames them as less authoritative, even if they’re equally (or more) accomplished than their male peers.
This isn’t just about perception — it’s about opportunities. Subtle linguistic biases can affect who gets taken seriously, who gets the promotion, and who is seen as a leader.
The Personal Impact
Think about it in your own life. Maybe you’ve been in meetings where male colleagues are addressed formally, while women, no matter their seniority, are introduced casually. Or perhaps you’ve been on the receiving end of this. How did it make you feel?
For many women, it’s infuriating but difficult to articulate. You might feel the nagging sensation of being undermined, yet struggle to call it out without seeming overly sensitive.
That’s the power of microaggressions. They’re small enough to slip by unnoticed by many, but their cumulative impact is enormous.
Why Do We Do This?
Some of this bias comes from deep-rooted societal norms. Historically, men have been positioned as figures of authority and leadership, while women were relegated to the private sphere. Even as women have entered these spaces, language hasn’t caught up.
Calling someone “Mr. Sharma” or “Dr. Rao” acknowledges their authority; addressing them as “Neha” or “Shruti” creates a casual, almost dismissive tone.
It’s also worth noting that women often experience different socializations regarding how to present themselves. Many women are taught to be approachable, warm, and likable. Using their first names aligns with those expectations, while referring to men formally aligns with their historical role as authority figures.
Breaking Down the Bias: How Can We Change This?
Be Mindful in Professional Settings
Whether you’re in a meeting or introducing speakers, use the same naming conventions for men and women. If you’re using last names for men, do the same for women. Consistency matters.
Encourage Feedback and Reflection
If you notice others defaulting to informal language for women, gently call it out. Often, people aren’t aware of these patterns until someone points them out.
Recognize and Address Bias in Media
Journalists, commentators, and public figures play a big role in shaping these norms. Holding them accountable for the language they use can have a ripple effect.
Normalize Authority for Women
Support women who prefer to be addressed formally in professional contexts. It’s not about being stiff or unapproachable, but about claiming their space and authority.
Words Are Power
The way we address each other may seem like a small thing, but it adds up. It shapes how we see each other, how we see ourselves, and ultimately, how we move through the world.
For women, being consistently addressed informally while their male peers get the full weight of their titles or surnames sends a clear message about who holds power.
But we can rewrite this narrative. By being intentional with our language, we can dismantle these subtle biases.
Let’s stop reserving authority for a select few and start giving credit where it’s due. The next time you’re in a meeting, giving an introduction, or even chatting casually at work, pay attention to the words you use. They matter more than you think.
Let’s create a world where respect isn’t dictated by gender, but by merit.
And it starts with something as simple as a name.
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