>imo, if a new word is invented because it genuinely improves the use of language, improves
>communication and understanding between people, that is one thing. But to invent words in
>an attempt to be politically correct or to try and pretend that male and female are the same I
>think is pointless.

Aha! Conclusion: Jos does not believe that "political correctness" is an improvement. :-)

I agree. Things should be as they are. However, I disagree in this case. In the English language it is awkward to consistently write sentences which are designed for gender-neutral applications. Using "they" or "their" has gained traction because people want a gender-neutral approach to their writings, and not just to be politically correct, but because it accurately addresses their target audience.

My only suggestion of the word heir is that it is already gender-neutral, applying to anything basically (a person, a group, a company, that is able to receive something -- so why not use it also to apply to people in those situations where "he" or "she" would work equally well?


>(NB: I am not suggesting that is what the "heir" word is about - I dont know about that or how
>it would/might benefit communication or understanding).

It would require a massive promotional campaign. The reason we don't have it already integrated into English is because that level of "getting it out there" is far beyond my interest or fiscal abilities. :-) LOL!