So I’ve realized that in conversations I’ll use traditional terms for men as general terms for all genders, both singularly and for groups. I always mean it well, but I’ve been thinking that it’s not as inclusive to women/trans people.
For example I would say:
“What’s up guys?” “How’s it going man?” "Good job, my dude!” etc.
Replacing these terms with person, people, etc sounds awkward. Y’all works but sounds very southern US (nowhere near where I am located) so it sounds out of place.
So what are some better options?
Edit: thanks for all the answers peoples, I appreciate the honest ones and some of the funny ones.
The simplest approach is to just drop the usage of guys, man, etc. Folks for groups and mate for singular appeal to me when I do want to add one in between friends.
The simplest approach is to accept language is inherently gendered, and at a certain point it is exhausting to either take offense to everything or walk on eggshells.
I’m southern, so I use y’all almost exclusively lol
Y’all
for singular use boo works, and plural you can say “hey, fuckos”
Comrade ✊
“Mate” is always a good option, I wish it’s used more universally in the States, too.
Carbon-based life forms
All the alternatives make me cringe.
If someone is insulted that you use the term “guys” for a group, they’re not worth being friends with. That’s a lot of exhausting mental energy to deal with. Ignore 'em and move on.
The south is objectively better than the rest of the USA (from my experience as foreigner). Just go with y’all.
Also I use dude with my NB friend pretty habitually.
Guys is probably the most neutral of the ones you mentioned.
Earthling…Terran - I don’t care how awkward it sounds. It’s awkward for me to change might as well make it awkward for everyone.
I support this
Guy:innen
I loathe that I get this. Ugh…
Fellow kids
What’s up carbon based earthlings.
folks, y’all, youse
friends / friend
comrades / comrade
folks, y’all, youse
The redneck trifecta!