Describing content, products, activities, or environments that are primarily designed to appeal to or cater to the interests, preferences, and needs of men. This orientation can manifest in various forms, from the targeted marketing of goods like tools or sports equipment to the thematic focus of media, entertainment, and social spaces. Often, male-oriented content features masculine themes, characters, and narratives. It may exclude or marginalize perspectives or interests commonly associated with women, though the definition is based on intended target audience, not absolute exclusion. The impact can vary from benign to exclusionary, depending on implementation.
Male-oriented meaning with examples
- The action film was heavily male-oriented, filled with car chases, explosions, and a predominantly male cast. Its appeal lay in catering to a demographic fond of such high-octane thrills. While entertaining for some, critics noted a lack of character depth and a stereotypical portrayal of women, thus alienating audiences seeking more diverse and nuanced narratives. The film's success rested solely on capturing the male viewing demographic.
- The sports apparel store had a predominantly male-oriented selection, with a wide range of athletic wear, sporting goods, and equipment geared towards men's athletic pursuits. The design of the store layout also facilitated this, using large screens showcasing sports events and focusing on male athletes. Very little products were targeted to women, missing an opportunity to expand their consumer base and become more inclusive to all.
- The gaming convention showcased a male-oriented environment, with a focus on first-person shooters, fighting games, and other titles predominantly favored by male gamers. The marketing, displays, and surrounding events clearly catered to that preference. While many women are gamers, the overall atmosphere and specific content created an impression of exclusivity, potentially discouraging participation from those outside the target demographic.
- The construction site's job postings were perceived as male-oriented, using language and imagery that did not actively encourage applications from women. The requirements and expectations listed often assumed prior experience in traditionally male-dominated trades. This bias, whether intentional or not, inadvertently limited the applicant pool and perpetuated gender imbalances in the industry.
- The marketing campaign for the new power tool was undeniably male-oriented, with rugged imagery, a voiceover emphasizing performance and durability, and advertising placements in publications geared towards a male audience. This strategy, though effective at attracting the intended consumer base, risked alienating potential female customers who might have also been interested in the product's functionality.