Oxford University Advises Faculty Against Using ‘Learn the Ropes’ to Aid International Students

Oxford University recently issued guidance to its academic staff advising against the use of expressions like “learn the ropes” and “find your feet,” citing concerns that international students might find these terms unclear.

The university’s official style guide emphasizes the importance of “inclusive communication.” It advises faculty members to refrain from using idiomatic phrases that could confuse non-native speakers, as well as outdated terms like “blindspots.”

In line with this initiative, the guide encourages the use of “plain English,” steering clear of jargon, unexplained acronyms, and complex sentence structures. “Utilize familiar words and simple constructions,” the guide instructs, urging caution regarding idioms that may not resonate with all students.

Currently, international students comprise 46% of Oxford’s total enrollment, which includes 23% of undergraduates and 65% of graduate students, illustrating the significance of clear communication.

The Free Speech Union (FSU) has labeled these recommendations as excessive, describing them as a form of “language policing.” Lord Young of Acton, General Secretary of the FSU, commented, “One of the reasons international students choose Oxford is to immerse themselves in our culture and to master colloquial English. What’s next? Will lectures be required to be delivered in Esperanto?”

The updated guide, which was revised in May, also recommends avoiding gender-specific terms like “chairwoman” or “mankind.” It encourages the use of more contemporary and respectful terminology, such as “gay” instead of “homosexual,” and “older people” instead of “the elderly.”

Furthermore, the guide aims to alter language that might imply pity, suggesting alternatives like “disabled students” rather than “the disabled” and “blind people” rather than “the blind.” It also advises against using “neurodiverse,” allowing the terms “neurodiversity” and “neurodivergent.”

Additionally, specific guidance is provided on how to refer to “equality, diversity and inclusion” (EDI), cautioning against the terms “DEI” and “equity,” which are widely used in the United States.

This initiative comes at a time when universities are feeling financial pressure to attract international students, who typically pay higher tuition fees compared to domestic students. In 2027, the maximum annual fee for UK students is capped at £10,050, while overseas students at Oxford can face tuition anywhere between £39,620 and £66,580 annually.

Oxford’s online resources also remind prospective international postgraduate applicants of the high proficiency in English required for admission, emphasizing that the university’s graduate programs are notably rigorous.

An Oxford spokesperson clarified, “Like many large organizations, including media outlets, we have a style guide to promote clarity and consistency in writing. As a global institution, we cater to a diverse audience and aim to provide guidance that enhances comprehension while allowing staff to exercise their discretion regarding language usage.”