A person whose gender identity is in some way different to the gender they were assigned at birth.

A person that has several gender identities. This can mean they have them at the same time, or that they often switch between them at different times.

An umbrella term for gender identities which are not confined by the gender binary of “women” and “men”. Non-binary people may identify with no gender at all or with more than one gender.

A person who does not identify with any gender.

A person who feels that their gender is not static and that it changes throughout their life – this could be on a daily/weekly/monthly basis.

An umbrella term for non-binary identities that have a partial connection to a certain gender. Demiboy: A gender identity that is both male and genderless. Demigirl: A gender identity that is both female and genderless.

A person whose gender is the same or mostly the same as they were assigned at birth.

A person who feels they have two gender identities – this could be at the same time or at different times.

A person who is uncertain about and/or exploring their own sexual orientation (and/or gender identity).

Many LGBTQ+ people (particularly young people) use the word “queer” to describe their identity, including both their gender identity and sexual orientation. It is a broad umbrella term for any gender or orientation which is not cis/straight.

This word has a complex history, including being used as an LGBTQphobic insult. Many people are uncomfortable with it for this reason, but many others find empowerment from reclaiming the word and changing its meaning. As ever, follow the golden rule…

Golden Rule: Always use the language that people would use for themselves