Understanding LGBTQ+ terminology is crucial for creating an inclusive and respectful environment. The guide below provides clear, concise definitions of key terms related to sexual orientation, gender identity, and LGBTQ+ experiences. It does not offer information about race and ethnicity, however, as gender dysphoria transcends these two grouping methods.
Whether you're an ally, a member of the LGBTQ+ community, or simply seeking to expand your knowledge, these definitions will help you communicate more effectively and sensitively.
By learning and using appropriate language, we can all foster greater understanding, respect, and support for diverse gender identities and sexual orientations.
It is also highly important for anyone searching for volunteer opportunities (www.transbefrienders.com/volunteer) in Singapore, especially within the LGBTQ+ community, to understand these terms before dedicating time to help others.
Sexual Orientation Terms
Asexual: Individuals who do not experience sexual attraction. This orientation is part of the spectrum and does not necessarily mean a lack of romantic attraction or desire for relationships.
Bisexual: People attracted to two or more genders. This can include attraction to any gender, not just men and women.
Gay: Individuals attracted to the same gender, often used for men attracted to men. Some women also use this term to describe themselves.
Lesbian: Women who are primarily attracted to other women. This term is specific to female same-sex attraction.
Pansexual: Individuals attracted to people regardless of gender. Pansexuality acknowledges the spectrum of gender identities beyond the binary.
Questioning: People exploring or unsure about their sexual orientation. This is a
valid identity and part of many people's journey of self-discovery.
Gender Identity Terms
Cisgender: People whose gender identity aligns with their assigned sex at birth. This term is used to describe non-transgender individuals.
Genderqueer: A term for non-binary gender identities. It can encompass a wide range of gender expressions and identities outside the traditional gender binary.
Non-binary: Those who don't identify exclusively as male or female. Non-binary can be an umbrella term for various gender identities that fall outside the binary.
Transgender: Individuals whose gender identity differs from their assigned sex at birth. This can include people who identify as men, women, or non-binary.
Other Important Terms
Ally: A supporter of LGBTQ+ rights and equality. Allies play a crucial role in advocating for and supporting the LGBTQ+ community.
Biphobia: Prejudice against bisexual individuals. This can manifest as discrimination, erasure, or negative stereotypes about bisexual people.
Coming out: The process of disclosing one's LGBTQ+ identity. This is a personal journey that can be ongoing and different for each individual.
Gender dysphoria: Distress arising from the incongruence between one's gender identity and sexual characteristics or how others perceive them. It's a recognized medical condition that can be alleviated through various forms of gender transition.
Gender expression: How a person presents their gender externally. This can include clothing, hairstyles, mannerisms, and other aspects of appearance.
Gender transition: The process of aligning one's life and physical characteristics with one's gender identity. This can include social, medical, and legal aspects, depending on the individual's needs and desires.
Pronouns: Personal pronouns used to refer to individuals (e.g., he/him, she/her, they/them). Using a person's correct pronouns is an important way to show respect for their gender identity.
Queer: An umbrella term for the LGBTQ+ community. Once considered
derogatory, it has been reclaimed by many in the community as a positive term.
Acronyms and Abbreviations
DSG: Diverse Sexualities and Genders. An inclusive term used to represent the full spectrum of sexual orientations and gender identities.
GSM: Gender and Sexual Minorities. Another inclusive term used to encompass all non-cisgender and non-heterosexual individuals.
LGBTQ+: Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, Transgender, Queer/Questioning, and others. The plus sign represents other identities not explicitly included in the acronym.
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