Oxford University Advises Staff to Avoid Idioms for International Students

Oxford University has issued guidance to its staff, urging them to avoid certain idiomatic expressions and jargon in an effort to enhance communication with international students. The university's official style guide includes a section on 'inclusive communication' that advises against phrases such as 'learn the ropes,' 'find your feet,' and 'blindspots,' as they may not be universally understood.

The guide emphasizes the use of 'plain English,' recommending common words, short sentences, and familiar constructions. It cautions staff to be mindful of idioms that might confuse international readers or perpetuate stereotypes. This initiative comes as international students constitute a significant portion of Oxford's student population, making up 46 percent of the total, including 23 percent of undergraduates and 65 percent of graduate students.

In addition to idiomatic expressions, the style guide addresses other aspects of inclusive language. It advises against gendered terms like 'chairwoman,' 'mankind,' and 'spokesman,' suggesting alternatives such as 'chair,' 'humanity,' and 'spokesperson.' The guide also recommends using current and respectful terminology, favoring 'gay' over 'homosexual' except in specific legal or medical contexts, and 'older people' instead of 'the elderly.' Language that could imply pity, such as referring to 'the disabled' or 'the blind,' is also discouraged in favor of 'disabled students' and 'blind people.' The terms 'neurodiversity' and 'neurodivergent' are acceptable, but 'neurodiverse' is not.

Furthermore, the guide offers specific recommendations for discussing 'equality, diversity, and inclusion' (EDI). It advises against using the acronym 'DEI' and the word 'equity,' which are more common in the United States, as well as 'inclusivity' and 'inclusiveness.' Instead, it recommends maintaining consistent use of the acronym 'EDI' and specific words as defined in the university's strategic plan.

The Free Speech Union (FSU) has criticized the guidance, with General Secretary Lord Young of Acton calling it 'mad' and a form of 'language policing.' He suggested that part of the reason international students attend Oxford is to immerse themselves in English culture and master colloquialisms, questioning whether the university would next demand lectures be delivered in Esperanto.

The university's push for clearer communication coincides with increased financial pressure on higher education institutions to recruit international students, who typically pay higher tuition fees than domestic students. At Oxford, annual overseas student fees can range from £39,620 to £66,580, significantly more than the £10,050 cap for home students in 2027.

An Oxford spokesperson stated that the style guide, last updated in May, is a common practice for large organizations and aims to help staff write clearly and consistently for a global audience. The guidance is advisory and supports staff in using their judgment regarding language and audience.