Language encompasses a variety of words that help us express our identity, and when learning English, it’s important to familiarize oneself with terms related to gender and identity. This article will explore key vocabulary related to this topic, providing definitions and example sentences to help clarify their usage.

Cisgender
A term used to describe a person whose gender identity aligns with the sex they were assigned at birth. It is often abbreviated as “cis.”

After learning about gender identity, I realized that I am cisgender.

Transgender
Refers to a person whose gender identity is different from the sex they were assigned at birth. It is often abbreviated as “trans.”

The documentary explored the lives of transgender individuals and their journeys.

Non-binary
An umbrella term for gender identities that are not exclusively masculine or feminine. People who identify as non-binary may experience their gender identity as being outside the categories of man and woman, or as a combination of both.

Sam introduced themselves as non-binary and clarified that they prefer “they/them” pronouns.

Genderqueer
Similar to non-binary, this term is used by some people who do not subscribe to conventional gender distinctions but identify with neither, both, or a combination of male and female genders.

Alex feels that the label genderqueer most accurately reflects their gender identity.

Genderfluid
Describes a person whose gender identity may change or shift over time. A genderfluid individual’s gender can vary at random or in response to different circumstances.

Because I’m genderfluid, some days I feel more masculine and other days more feminine.

Agender
Used to describe someone who identifies as having no gender or being genderless.

Jordan is agender and prefers not to be labeled by traditional gender terms.

Gender expression
The external manifestation of one’s gender identity, usually expressed through behavior, clothing, haircut, voice, or body characteristics. Gender expression can be masculine, feminine, a mix of both, or neither, and may not necessarily correspond to a person’s gender identity.

Their gender expression leans toward a more androgynous style.

Sexual orientation
Refers to the pattern of romantic or sexual attraction to others, which can be towards the opposite gender (heterosexual), same gender (homosexual), both genders (bisexual), all genders (pansexual), or without sexual attraction (asexual).

She identifies as pansexual and is open to romantic relationships with any gender.

Intersex
A term that describes a person who is born with sex characteristics, such as chromosomes, hormones, or genitalia, that do not fit typical binary notions of male or female bodies.

The intersex community is raising awareness about the challenges they face in a world that often demands clear-cut gender differentiation.

Pronouns
Words used to refer to someone in place of their name. Common English pronouns include “he/him,” “she/her,” “they/them,” and “ze/hir” among others. Pronouns can be an important aspect of someone’s identity, especially for transgender and non-binary individuals.

Please remember that Taylor uses “ze/hir” pronouns when you address hir.

Learning about gender and identity vocabulary not only expands one’s understanding of the English language, but it also fosters an inclusive environment where individuals feel seen and respected for who they are. It’s essential to approach these terms with sensitivity and an open mind, as language continues to evolve alongside our understanding of gender and identity.