Misgendering

Misgendering means referring to a person by the wrong gender, pronouns, or gendered terms, whether by mistake or on purpose. Transgender and non-binary people are especially affected. It can be hurtful and may cause dysphoria, stress, or feelings of exclusion.

In respectful settings, attention should be paid to a person’s chosen name, correct pronouns, and preferred form of address. If a mistake happens, a brief correction and an apology are usually appropriate. Repeated or deliberate misgendering can be experienced as discriminatory or degrading.