nonbinary

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "nonbinary" is correct and usable in written English. You can use it to describe a gender identity that does not fit within the traditional binary of male and female. An example: "They identify as nonbinary and prefer they/them pronouns." Alternative expressions include "genderqueer" and "gender nonconforming."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

15 human-written examples

I don't need to justify my sexuality to anyone by dating a woman, trans person or a nonbinary person just to prove that I'm pansexual.

Independent

Last year, the Rainbow Europe Index identified Scotland as the best country in Europe when it came to legal protections for LGB people and, last week, the first minister of Scotland announced her intention to reform gender recognition law for trans people and those with nonbinary identities.

The Guardian

Nina asks, How do you think we can we help stop erasure of minority minority groups ie asexuals, nonbinary, polysexual, people?

The Guardian

It is an extremely specific critique of white, heterosexual society dominated by men, and the ways that that system objectifies and disenfranchises women and nonbinary people.

The Guardian - TV & Radio

As it stands, according to a nationwide survey by the National Center for Transgender Equality, nonbinary people, especially those of us who are people of color, are more likely than binary trans people to attempt suicide, be harassed by the police, live in abject poverty and be sexually and physically assaulted.

The Guardian - Opinion

As a South Asian nonbinary person – someone who does not identify as a man or a woman – I have grown accustomed to people being disgusted by me, to strangers calling out on the street, "What the hell is that?" Media outlets – like Time magazine on its 2014 cover featuring Laverne Cox –proclaim that we're at a "transgender tipping point", a time of unprecedented visibility for trans people.

The Guardian - Opinion

At one point, discussing a phase in her life when she went by nonbinary pronouns, she used the gender theorist Judith Butler's name as a verb.

The New Yorker

Photos of male, female, and nonbinary subjects currently attending progressive liberal-arts colleges refused to be categorized as "gay" or "straight," and made disgusted noises.

The New Yorker

Deschamps-Braly had some patients who had no desire to hide their trans-ness, including Adrian Roberts, a d.j. and party host who identifies as nonbinary trans-feminine, and who goes by the pronoun "they".

The New Yorker

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

2 human-written examples

His main focus was the issue of pronouns: many transgender or gender-nonbinary people use pronouns different from the ones they were assigned at birth — including, sometimes, "they," in the singular, or nontraditional ones, like "ze".

The New Yorker

When he lampoons "made-up pronouns," he sometimes seems to be lampooning the people who use them, encouraging his fans to view transgender or gender-nonbinary people as confused, or deluded.

The New Yorker

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Ensure that your language is inclusive and respectful when discussing "nonbinary" identities, avoiding generalizations or stereotypes.

Common error

Avoid using incorrect pronouns or gendered language when referring to "nonbinary" individuals. This can be hurtful and invalidating. Always respect their stated identity.

Linguistic Context

The term "nonbinary" primarily functions as an adjective, modifying nouns to describe a gender identity that exists outside the traditional male/female binary. Ludwig examples show it used to describe people (a "nonbinary person") or identities (identifies as "nonbinary"). Ludwig AI confirms its correct usage.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

70%

Science

20%

Formal & Business

10%

Less common in

Academia

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Wiki

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The term "nonbinary" is a commonly used adjective that describes a gender identity that falls outside the traditional male/female binary. As evidenced by the Ludwig examples, its usage is grammatically correct and widely accepted across various contexts, especially in news and media. Ludwig AI confirms its correct usage. When writing about "nonbinary" individuals, it's crucial to use their preferred pronouns and ensure inclusivity. Related terms include "genderqueer" and "gender non-conforming". Remember to avoid misgendering, which can be hurtful and invalidating. The term's prevalence in authoritative sources such as The Guardian and The New Yorker underscores its importance in contemporary discussions about gender identity.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

genderqueer

Describes a similar concept, often used interchangeably but can have slightly different connotations.

gender non-conforming

Focuses on the expression of gender rather than identity itself.

gender diverse

Highlights the variety of gender identities beyond the binary.

gender variant

A broader term encompassing various deviations from traditional gender norms.

neither male nor female

A more explicit and descriptive way of defining the identity.

agender

Refers to the absence of a gender identity.

bigender

Refers to identifying with two genders.

pangender

Refers to identifying with all genders.

gender neutral

Describes something that is not specifically associated with either gender.

third gender

Recognizes a gender category distinct from male and female, common in some cultures.

FAQs

How do I use "nonbinary" in a sentence?

You can use "nonbinary" as an adjective, for example: "They are a "nonbinary" person." Or: "They identify as "nonbinary"."

What are some other terms for "nonbinary"?

Alternatives include "genderqueer", "gender non-conforming", and "gender variant". The best term depends on the individual's preference.

What is the difference between "nonbinary" and transgender?

"Transgender" is an umbrella term for people whose gender identity differs from the sex they were assigned at birth. "Nonbinary" is a gender identity that falls outside the traditional male/female binary. A "nonbinary" person may also identify as transgender, but not all do.

Is it okay to ask someone what their pronouns are if they are "nonbinary"?

Yes, it is generally considered respectful to ask someone their pronouns, especially if you are unsure. Using correct pronouns is a sign of respect and avoids misgendering.