which gender is government? Or is this a stupid question ;-)

[colorblindjunkee]

I hope this is not a stupid question.

governor = masculine
governess = feminine

Which gender is government?

I would like to refer the government as Mr. or Ms. Government. But I've no clue about the gender.

Thanks for your kind help.

[Anglika]

It is neutral. But if you want to personify it, choose the sex you feel closest and use that.

[colorblindjunkee]

It is neutral. But if you want to personify it, choose the sex you feel closest and use that.

An example would suffice.

Thanks Anglika

[Anglika]

If you feel the government is strong, maybe Mr Government is fair.

If you feel the government is gentle and unassertive, you might feel that Ms Government is right.

Whatever you do, you are sure to irritate someone!

[Barb_D]

In the US, I've never seen "governess" to refer to a female governor!

You realize that they are two totally different words? A female governor is a governor.