LGBTQ+ glossary: essential terms explained respectfully

The essentials

Glossaries help begin conversations, but words change across cultures, generations and people. Identity is who someone is; expression is how they present; orientation describes attraction; cis, trans, non-binary and femboy are not necessarily mutually exclusive boxes.

Identity is a personal experience, not a conclusion others can draw from appearance. Self-definition, time and autonomy should guide every conversation.

Why it matters

Avoiding imposed labels gives each person room to find words that fit without having to prove who they are.

Putting it into practice

There is no single formula. Use these actions as a starting point and adapt them to each person's context and boundaries.

• Ask before assuming and accept the answer without interrogation.
• Revisit the situation whenever the context or a boundary changes.

Editorial review and next step

This guide was reviewed on 20 August 2026 to make its focus more specific and verifiable: “LGBTQ+ glossary: essential terms explained respectfully”.

Use this summary as a practical criterion without assuming anyone's identity, consent or availability: A starting point for identity, expression, orientation, trans, non-binary, femboy and other terms without reducing lived experience.

• Next step: Treat every definition as a reference and prioritise the self-definition of the person present.