1.

Performance Theory in Language and Gender

Performance theory, originally rooted in theatre and performance studies, has been widely
applied to gender and language studies, particularly through the works of Judith Butler and
linguistic scholars. This theoretical framework challenges the notion that gender is an
inherent or biological trait, instead arguing that it is produced through repeated
linguistic and social acts. Language, as a crucial site for identity construction, does not
merely reflect gender but actively constructs and reinforces gender norms through
speech patterns, vocabulary, and communicative behaviors. By examining language
through the lens of performance theory, we can better understand how gender is both
maintained and subverted through everyday speech.

2. Speech Act Theory and Performativity in Gendered Language

The foundation of performance theory in language and gender can be traced back to J.L.
Austin's (1962) Speech Act Theory, which introduced the concept of performative
utterances—statements that do not merely describe reality but actively create it. For
instance, when a judge declares, “I pronounce you guilty,” or when a couple is told, “I now
pronounce you married,” these utterances bring new realities into existence rather than
simply describing them. Building on this concept, Judith Butler extended performativity to
gender, arguing that gender is not something one is but something one does. According
to Butler, gender is constructed through repeated linguistic and social performances,
meaning that people enact gender through their daily interactions, speech choices, and
behavioral expressions.

For example, from early childhood, individuals are assigned gender roles through language.
Calling a baby girl “princess” and a baby boy “champ” reinforces specific gendered
expectations that will shape their self-perception and social behavior. Such linguistic
reinforcement creates the illusion of a stable gender identity, even though gender itself
is an ongoing performance rather than a fixed attribute. Therefore, performance theory
suggests that language plays an active role in constructing gender rather than simply
reflecting a pre-existing identity.

3. The Role of Language in Constructing Gender Norms

One of the most significant ways gender is performed through language is in gendered
linguistic structures. Many languages have gendered grammatical categories that
reinforce binary distinctions between masculinity and femininity. In languages like French
and Spanish, even inanimate objects are classified as either masculine or feminine, subtly
reinforcing the idea that gender is an inherent and universal classification. In contrast,
some languages, such as English, have introduced gender-neutral pronouns (they/them)
as an attempt to disrupt traditional gender binaries. The adoption of neutral pronouns
challenges the notion that individuals must fit neatly into either the male or female
category.
Beyond grammar, speech patterns also contribute to the performance of gender.
Linguists such as Robin Lakoff (1975) have argued that women and men use language
differently due to social conditioning rather than biological differences. Women, for
example, have been found to use more hedging expressions (“I think,” “maybe,” “kind of”),
which can make their speech appear less assertive. Additionally, women tend to use tag
questions (“This is a good idea, isn’t it?”) and apologetic language, reinforcing the
stereotype that femininity is associated with politeness and deference. In contrast, men are
more likely to use direct, assertive language, which aligns with societal expectations of
masculinity. These differences in speech patterns are not innate but are performances
shaped by social expectations.

Consider professional environments: studies have shown that female executives often
use more indirect speech strategies to avoid being perceived as aggressive, whereas
their male counterparts may adopt a more dominant speaking style. The fact that
individuals modify their speech depending on social context supports the idea that
gender is performative—it is something people do rather than something they are.

4. Gender Performativity in Public and Media Discourse

Performance theory extends beyond individual speech patterns to the realm of public
discourse and media representations, where gender is performed on a larger social
scale. In political speech, for example, female politicians must carefully navigate
gendered expectations. Research has shown that Hillary Clinton had to adjust her
speaking style to appear assertive without seeming overly aggressive—a common
challenge faced by women in leadership. In contrast, Donald Trump used highly direct and
confrontational language, reinforcing a traditional performance of masculinity that
resonated with certain audiences. Meanwhile, Barack Obama’s ability to code-switch—
adapting his speech style depending on his audience—demonstrates how linguistic
performance is shaped by cultural expectations.

Similarly, pop culture and entertainment play a crucial role in performing and
reinforcing gender identities. In drag culture, for instance, drag queens exaggerate
speech patterns, intonation, and vocabulary to emphasize the performative nature of
femininity. A phrase like “Yas queen!”—popularized in LGBTQ+ communities—
demonstrates how language can be playfully manipulated to challenge conventional gender
norms. The music industry also reflects gendered speech performances, as seen in hip-
hop and rap lyrics. Female artists like Nicki Minaj and Megan Thee Stallion use
confident, aggressive language to challenge traditional expectations of female speech, while
male rappers often perform hypermasculinity through deep voices and dominant lyrical
themes. These examples show that language serves as both a medium of gender
conformity and resistance.
 5. Subversion and Resistance: Challenging Gendered Language Norms

Performance theory does not only explain how gender is constructed—it also offers a
framework for challenging and subverting gender norms through language. One of the
most visible examples of this is the rise of gender-inclusive language. The adoption of
gender-neutral pronouns (they/them, xe/xem) in English and other languages disrupts
the binary system, allowing for greater flexibility in gender identification. Similarly,
many workplaces and institutions have replaced gendered job titles like fireman and
policeman with neutral terms such as firefighter and police officer, recognizing that gender
is not essential to these roles.

Beyond grammatical shifts, queer linguistic practices also demonstrate how language can
be a site of resistance. LGBTQ+ communities often engage in code-switching, using
different speech styles depending on their social context. For example, "gay speech"—
characterized by elongated vowels, high intonation, and expressive gestures—functions as
a linguistic performance of identity rather than a reflection of inherent traits. This use of
language creates and maintains queer identities, further proving that gender and
sexuality are constructed through performative acts.

Social media and online activism have also become powerful arenas for linguistic
resistance. Hashtags like #MeToo and #SayHerName are not just phrases but
performative acts that shape public discourse on gender and social justice. Similarly,
internet memes and slang (e.g., “slay,” “no tea, no shade”) function as subversive linguistic
tools that challenge mainstream gender expectations.

6. Conclusion: The Power of Language as Gender Performance

Performance theory provides a critical lens for understanding how gender is constructed
and maintained through language. Rather than viewing language as a neutral medium, this
perspective reveals that language actively shapes gender identities through speech
patterns, social interactions, and public discourse. Gendered speech patterns, political
rhetoric, media portrayals, and online activism all serve as stages where gender is
continuously performed, reinforced, and contested.

Recognizing gender as a linguistic and social performance also opens up possibilities for
resistance and transformation. The adoption of gender-inclusive language, the rise of
queer linguistic styles, and the playful reimagining of gender in pop culture demonstrate
that language is not static—it is a tool that can be used to challenge traditional gender
norms. Thus, performance theory not only helps us understand how gender is enacted
through language but also empowers us to rethink and reshape gendered communication
in more inclusive and diverse ways.