The role of pronouns

 By Kana

In most languages, people use pronouns when referring to someone else. Pronouns are used to replace the nouns and make the conversation go smoothly without having to repeat the same words. But they also play an important role in expressing your identity and can be used as a way to show your acceptance and recognition towards how other people identify as well. Pronouns are crucial, especially for trans people and non-binary people, who identify with something different from their original biological gender. In this post, I'm going to talk about the important role of pronouns in acknowledging someone's gender identity.

Pronouns are something people use to refer to you, other than your name, and getting others' pronouns right can show your respect for them and their choice as well as avoid making assumptions about someone's gender based on their appearance. Using the correct pronoun when referring to them can lead to creating an open and welcoming environment, particularly, when you are talking to non-cisgender people, who often face discrimination and are having a hard time getting people to accept them for who they are and being true to themselves. The proper use of pronouns can be a great way to let them know they are appreciated and affirmed by you.


So, how can we use pronouns efficiently? A lot of the LGBTQ+ communities suggest we make it a habit to ask for their pronouns when you meet someone for the first time and also offer yours. Normalizing the idea of sharing the pronouns can make it easier for them to share their identity and feel safer and included. It also helps us break free from the traditional way of thinking and get a flexible and diverse perspective in this new unique and inclusive society.

Lately, some people are starting to invent new pronouns, feeling that the existing ones don't quite represent who they are and fit them. I have looked at the list of new pronouns and frankly, some of them are a bit confusing and hard to remember. As much as it is important to show your acceptance by using their preferred pronouns, it is also crucial for non-binary people not to force on us a pronoun that is too unfamiliar and difficult for us to use. The most important thing is to understand that everyone has their own beliefs and ideas that may differ from yours, but you still have to be respectful to one another despite the differences.


Nation, L. (2023, February 18). An (incomplete) list of gender pronouns - LGBTQ Nation. LGBTQ Nation. https://www.lgbtqnation.com/2022/08/incomplete-list-gender-pronouns/

Wamsley, L. (2021, June 2). A guide to gender Identity Terms. NPR. https://www.npr.org/2021/06/02/996319297/gender-identity-pronouns-expression-guide-lgbtq


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