transgender: meaning, definition, pronunciation and examples
C1Formal, but increasingly common in neutral and everyday registers in contexts of identity and social discussion.
Quick answer
What does “transgender” mean?
Relating to a person whose gender identity differs from the sex they were assigned at birth.
Audio
Pronunciation
Definition
Meaning and Definition
Relating to a person whose gender identity differs from the sex they were assigned at birth.
An umbrella term for people whose gender identity and/or expression differs from what is typically associated with the sex they were assigned at birth. The term can be used as an adjective, a noun, or, less commonly, a verb. It is often shortened to 'trans'.
Dialectal Variation
British vs American Usage
Differences
Minimal lexical difference. The abbreviation 'trans' is common in both. Spelling and grammar are identical.
Connotations
Identical in core meaning and social/political connotations. Both regions use it as a standard, respectful term.
Frequency
Comparably frequent in media, academic, and social discourse in both the UK and US.
Grammar
How to Use “transgender” in a Sentence
[BE] transgenderidentify as [transgender][adv.] transgender (e.g., openly transgender)support/advocate for [transgender rights]Vocabulary
Collocations
Examples
Examples of “transgender” in a Sentence
verb
British English
- The process to legally transgender can involve a Gender Recognition Certificate in the UK.
American English
- Some individuals choose to transgender without undergoing medical interventions.
adjective
British English
- The organisation provides crucial support for transgender youth.
American English
- She is a prominent advocate for transgender rights in the United States.
Usage
Meaning in Context
Business
Primarily appears in contexts of Diversity, Equity & Inclusion (DEI) policies, HR guidelines, and workplace rights discussions.
Academic
Frequent in sociology, gender studies, psychology, law, and medicine. Used with precision and within specific theoretical frameworks.
Everyday
Used in discussions of identity, news about rights, and personal introductions. Requires sensitivity and respect.
Technical
Used in medical, psychological, and legal contexts, though specific terminology like 'gender dysphoria' or 'gender affirmation' may be more precise in clinical settings.
Watch out
Common Mistakes When Using “transgender”
- Using 'transgender' as a noun (e.g., 'a transgender'). Use it as an adjective: 'a transgender person'.
- Confusing 'transgender' (identity) with 'sexual orientation' (e.g., gay, lesbian). They are separate concepts.
- Using outdated or offensive terms like 'transsexual' or 'tranny' unless an individual specifically self-identifies with them.
FAQ
Frequently Asked Questions
Primarily, it is an adjective (e.g., a transgender person). Using it as a noun (e.g., 'a transgender') is generally considered grammatically odd and potentially disrespectful, as it reduces a person to a single characteristic.
'Transgender' is a broader umbrella term. 'Transsexual' is an older, more clinical term which often implies a person has undergone or desires medical transition (e.g., hormones/surgery). Many find 'transsexual' outdated, and 'transgender' is the preferred and safer term unless an individual specifies otherwise.
It comes from Latin, meaning 'across,' 'beyond,' or 'on the other side of.' Here, it signifies moving across or beyond the gender assigned at birth.
No. Gender identity (being transgender) is about who you are. Sexual orientation (being gay, straight, bisexual, etc.) is about who you are attracted to. A transgender person can have any sexual orientation.
Relating to a person whose gender identity differs from the sex they were assigned at birth.
Transgender is usually formal, but increasingly common in neutral and everyday registers in contexts of identity and social discussion. in register.
Transgender: in British English it is pronounced /ˌtrænzˈdʒendə(r)/, and in American English it is pronounced /ˌtrænzˈdʒendər/. Tap the audio buttons above to hear it.
Learning
Memory Aids
Mnemonic
Think: TRANSforming one's perceived GENDER to match their true identity.
Conceptual Metaphor
IDENTITY IS A JOURNEY / BEING TRUE TO ONESELF IS BEING AUTHENTIC.
Practice
Quiz
Which of the following is the most appropriate and respectful usage?