No, "master" is generally not gender-neutral, especially when used as a personal honorific.
Here's a breakdown:
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As a Personal Honorific: When used to address someone directly (e.g., "Yes, Master"), "master" is typically associated with masculinity. The feminine equivalent is "mistress."
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As a Title: In some professional contexts or disciplines (e.g., Master Chief Petty Officer in the military or a Master's degree), "master" can be applied to both men and women. This usage is less gendered.
Here's a simple table to illustrate:
| Usage | Gender Association | Examples |
|---|---|---|
| Personal Honorific | Masculine | "Yes, Master," in a servant/master dynamic |
| Title (Professional) | Gender-Neutral | Master Chief Petty Officer, Master Plumber |
| Academic Degree | Gender-Neutral | Master of Science, Master of Arts |
Therefore, the gender neutrality of "master" depends heavily on the context. It's crucial to consider the specific situation to determine whether it's being used in a gendered or gender-neutral way.
