Early researchers into language and gender, above all Robin Lakoff, stressed the lack of

power which the kind of language women use seems to embody. Various features
were listed which were intended to document this powerlessness. These putative
features are listed in as follow:
1. Powerless, non-confrontational language. This includes:
a. indirect statements
It would save a lot of money if we bought a smaller car.

b. tag questions
Its not that much to ask, is it?

c. use of hedges, alternatives

Its not really that difficult. Well, why not?
We could go for a drive or a walk this afternoon.

d. high rising intonation at end of sentence

We could go away for the weekend.

2. Emotional, genteel language. This includes:

a. use of augmentatives
Im /delighted youre going to help. Theyre /so kind!

b. use of euphemisms
Peters gone to wash his hands.