GETTY The word 'sportsmanship' was banned from Cardiff Metropolitan University as it was deemed sexist

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Cardiff Metropolitan University, formerly South Glamorgan Institute of Higher Education, has advised that language should be "gender-neutral" and students should avoid using heir "cultural background" to make their choice of words. It says that the terms "forefathers", "mankind" and "sportsmanship" should be not be used, as part of efforts to "embrace cultural diversity" through language. Instead, students should say "ancestors", "humanity" and "sense of fair play".

These words have evolved over a long period of time Dr Joanna Williams

The university has listed 34 words that should not be used but adds that students need not be "too anxious" about the use of language. "Blind people do use terms like 'see you later' and being too careful can make conversation painful for both parties," it says. The news comes in the week that a survey by the Adam Smith Institute found that the vast majority of academics in higher education have Left-wing views.

The university has been accused of preventing free speech and "insulting" students and academics. Dr Joanna Williams, a lecturer in higher education the University of Kent and author of Academic Freedom in an Age of Conformity, said that: "It is a very authoritarian attempt to control the way people think and the language people use. "The idea that in a university people need to be dictated to in this way is really insulting to students and academics, we should be able to cope with words. These words have evolved over a long period of time and they don't have sexist associations."

GETTY Don't call her a housewife – at least not in South Wales

GETTY The word housewife has also been banned

A spokesman for Cardiff Metropolitan University said: "The University is committed unreservedly to the principle of academic freedom within the law. It is also committed to providing an environment where everyone is valued and treated with dignity and respect. These two commitments are cornerstones of academic life at the University. "The Code of Practice on Using Inclusive Language sets out a broad approach to promoting fairness and equality through raising awareness about the effects of potentially discriminatory vocabulary. "In particular, it includes some suggestions to support gender equality; these are consistent with other guidance (e.g., British Sociological Association's information on Equality and Diversity)."

GETTY Adult women should no be referred to as 'girls'

Banned words and what you should say: From Cardiff Metropolitan University's Code of Practice on using Inclusive Language Forefathers – Ancestors, forebears Gentleman's agreement – Unwritten agreement, agreement based on trust Girls (for adults) – women Housewife – Shopper, consumer, homemaker (depends on context)

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