Language matters.

In everyday speech, we often refer to other animals as “it” rather than “they” or another “being.” While often used unconsciously, language can shape perception. One word suggests individuality and presence. The other may reduce a living being to an object or category, making it easier to overlook relationship.

In legal systems, we assign human-centric terms such as “personhood” to other species and ecosystems in an effort to recognise and protect them.

These choices may seem small. They are not.

The language we use reflects and reinforces a deeper assumption: that humans are separate from Nature.

We speak of “humans,” “animals,” and “Nature” as if they are distinct categories, rather than expressions of the same living system. Rivers become resources. Forests become assets. Ecosystems become environments external to ourselves.

We name, define, and organise in ways that create distance.

We assign roles through language. Terms such as “owner,” “property,” or “resource” shape how relationships are understood and enacted.

Much of this happens unconsciously. It is embedded in everyday speech, institutional language, and legal frameworks.

The words available to us influence not only how other species are perceived, but also how ecosystems, waters, forests, and landscapes are understood and valued.

Language does not simply describe reality. It participates in creating it.

When language maintains separation, it becomes easier to justify systems of control, extraction, and commodification.

When language shifts, so too can perception, relationship, and responsibility.

What words do we use without noticing?

And what might change if we began to choose them differently?

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