A comment is a spoken or written remark that gives an opinion, explanation, or reaction. On the internet, it usually refers to a short response posted under a piece of content.
From Latin *commentum* “invention, interpretation,” from *commentari* “to reflect, to devise.” It originally had the sense of thoughtful interpretation, especially on texts.
The word “comment” started out as something closer to a mini-essay—a careful interpretation of a text. Modern online comments often keep the length but not always the depth of that original idea.
Online and public comments have often been spaces where women face disproportionate harassment, and women's comments are more likely to be dismissed or attacked. In many professional contexts, women's comments have historically been ignored or attributed to male colleagues.
Encourage respectful commenting norms and avoid gendered attacks; when moderating or summarizing comments, do not discount contributions based on gendered assumptions.
Women have used comments—letters to editors, online posts, and public feedback—to challenge exclusion and shape public discourse, even in hostile environments.
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