Here's An All Encompassing Guide To Using Gender Neutral Pronouns

Because yes, respecting someone’s pronouns is important.

- Rachel Varina and Michelle Stansbury

As people are evolving—both individually and as a society—language, too, continues to evolve. And one of the most-exciting ways language has progressed is through the use and understanding of gender-neutral pronouns.

According to the LGBTQIA+ Resource Center at University of Wisconsin-Milwaukee, gender-neutral pronouns are “inclusive pronouns that do not associate any gender with the individual being discussed.” These are different than he/his and she/hers pronouns, which are specifically gendered pronouns.

Now before we dive deeper into the subject and what gender-neutral pronouns are like, it is important to know that learning, using, and respecting someone’s pronouns are a necessary part of daily interaction.

So, whether you personally have gender-neutral pronouns, are trying to figure out which pronoun(s) are best for you, or are looking to be a better ally, you have come to the right place. With the help of some experts, we are breaking down everything you need to know about gender-neutral pronouns.

WHAT ARE THE GENDER-NEUTRAL PRONOUNS?

New uses of language are constantly evolving to encompass the diverse experiences of gender. Here are some of the most common gender-neutral pronouns you should know:

1. They/Them/Their The most frequently-used gender-neutral pronouns are they/them/their. “They/them are widely used among those who do not identify with she/her or he/him pronouns and are becoming increasingly accepted into mainstream culture,” says US-based Iris Gottlieb, author and illustrator of the book, Seeing Gender: An Illustrated Guide To Identity And Expression.