Clarion University Writing Center

We use female as an adjective, not woman: She is the first female governor of North Carolina. Treatment of the sexes should be evenhanded and free of assumptions and stereotypes.

Following Tiger Woods’ crash Tuesday, a reminder: The term Jaws of Life is the trademark name for a tool used to pry open parts of a vehicle to free those trapped inside. The term “hydraulic rescue tool” could be a generic term for devices similar to Jaws of Life.

Generally, use a hyphen in modifiers of three or more words: a know-it-all attitude, black-and-white photography, a sink-or-swim moment, a win-at-all-costs approach. Consider carefully, though, before using more than three at once. Rephrasing may make a sentence easier to read.

The term “patient” implies someone is being or has been treated by a medical professional. The vast majority of people with the coronavirus are not hospitalized, and some may not seek out care, so avoid using “patients” to refer to all people with the virus.

New guidance on AP Stylebook Online: Use care in deciding which term best applies: A riot is a wild or violent disturbance of the peace involving a group of people. The term riot suggests uncontrolled chaos and pandemonium. (1/5)

Capitalize and use the spelling Vodou when referring specifically to the religion as it is practiced primarily in Haiti or among the Haitian community abroad. The spelling Voodoo has come to be seen as pejorative in those regions and should be avoided. (1/3)

Avoid the vague "officer-involved" for shootings and other cases involving police. Be specific about what happened. If police use the term, ask: How was the officer or officers involved? Who did the shooting? If the information is not available or not provided, spell that out.