Oxford Dons Advised Against Idioms to Aid International Students

Oxford University has updated its official style guide, advising staff to avoid certain idiomatic expressions to ensure clearer communication with its international student population. The guide, last revised in May, suggests substituting phrases such as 'learn the ropes' and 'find your feet' with plainer language.

The document also recommends against using 'blindspots' and emphasizes the use of 'plain English' by avoiding jargon and unexplained acronyms. Lecturers are encouraged to use common words, short sentences, and familiar constructions, while being mindful of idioms that might not be understood by international readers or that could perpetuate stereotypes.

International students constitute a significant portion of Oxford's student body, making up 46 percent of the total population, including 23 percent of undergraduates and 65 percent of graduate students. The university's graduate programs, in particular, are described on its website as demanding, requiring a high level of English proficiency.

This initiative comes at a time when universities face increasing financial pressure to recruit international students, who often pay substantially higher tuition fees than domestic students. At Oxford, annual overseas student fees can range from £39,620 to £66,580, compared to the capped £10,050 for home students in 2027.

The style guide also addresses other aspects of inclusive communication, advising staff to avoid gendered terms like 'chairwoman' and 'mankind,' and to use 'current and respectful terms' such as 'gay' instead of 'homosexual' (except in specific legal or medical contexts) and 'older people' over 'the elderly.' It also suggests altering language to avoid implying pity, advocating for terms like 'disabled students' rather than 'the disabled,' and 'blind people' instead of 'the blind.' The terms 'neurodiversity' and 'neurodivergent' are noted as acceptable, while 'neurodiverse' is not.

While the guide aims to foster clarity, the Free Speech Union (FSU) has criticized the recommendations, with General Secretary Lord Young of Acton calling the move 'mad' and a form of 'language policing.' He suggested that immersion in colloquial English is part of the reason international students choose to study at Oxford.

An Oxford spokesman stated that the style guide, similar to those used by other large organizations, offers practical advice for clear and consistent written communication. The guide is advisory, supporting staff in using their best judgment for their audience and communication context, especially given the university's global community.