They might not think they do, but language is pervasive. We believe that it's simply a tool to express how we think and feel, but the words we use don't exist independently of that.

When someone calls you a girl, they aren't aware that they mean much by it - but unconsciously, something registers. Every time they say it, they're teaching themselves to associate you with everything else they might associate with 'girl'. Vulnerability. Weakness. Immaturity. A lack of preparedness to make your own choices and live your own life.