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Let’s Talk About “Cisgender”
Over the past few weeks, I’ve been engaging in discussions, asking people a straightforward question: “Can you give me a rational reason why you don’t like the word ‘cisgender’?” The results have been fascinating and, frankly, frustrating. Not a single person has been able to give me a rational answer.
Instead, I’ve been blocked, insulted, and met with defensive reactions. When someone does attempt to answer, their reasoning quickly falls apart—often looping back to, “I don’t like it because I don’t like it,” which isn’t a reason at all. Others compare the term to slurs, claim it’s unnecessary, or insist that they shouldn’t need a label because they’re “normal.”
These responses intrigue me because they all seem to circle around the same discomfort. What is it about this neutral, descriptive word that some people find so unbearable? Why does it provoke such strong emotional reactions, even to the point of shutting down conversations entirely?
This post is my long-form reflection on those discussions. I’ll unpack what “cisgender” actually means, explore its history and usage, and tackle the arguments people use to reject it—arguments that, in my view, don’t hold up to logical scrutiny. Along the way, I’ll argue that discomfort with the term “cisgender” often points to deeper issues, like unexamined privilege, transphobia, or a resistance to linguistic equality.
So, if you’re someone who dislikes the word “cisgender” and believes you have a rational reason for doing so, read on. Let’s see if your argument stands up to the challenge.
The History and Etymology of “Cisgender”
To understand the pushback against the word “cisgender,” we need to look at where it comes from. Like many terms we use today, “cisgender” has a history rooted in academic and activist contexts, but its foundations go back much further.
“Cis” and “Trans”: Ancient Latin Roots
The prefixes “cis-” and “trans-” come from Latin. “Cis” means “on this side of,” while “trans” means “on the other side of” or “beyond.” These terms have been used for centuries in disciplines like geography and chemistry:
- Geography: “Cisalpine” refers to “this side of the Alps,” while “transalpine” refers to “the other side.”
- Chemistry: Molecules are described as “cis” or “trans” depending on how their atoms are arranged.
When applied to gender, these prefixes describe alignment or non-alignment:
- Cisgender: Gender identity aligns with the expectations typically associated with one’s assigned sex.
- Transgender: Gender identity does not align with those expectations.
This use of “cis” and “trans” in gender discussions builds on a long linguistic tradition, tying the terms to broader concepts of positioning and relationality.
Early Uses in Gender and Sex Contexts
The idea of using “cis” and “trans” to describe gender and sex relationships isn’t new. Here are some key milestones:
- 1914: Ernst Burchard
Burchard, a German physician, used the terms “cisvestitismus” (gender-conforming clothing) and “transvestitismus” (cross-dressing) in his writings on sexuality. This is one of the earliest documented uses of “cis” in discussions about gender expression. - 1991: Volkmar Sigusch
Sigusch, a German sexologist, introduced the term “cissexual” to describe individuals whose gender identity aligns with their assigned sex at birth. This was in contrast to “transsexual,” which described individuals whose gender identity did not align. - 1994–1995: The Coining of “Cisgender”
The term “cisgender” was independently coined by several individuals in the mid-1990s:- Dana DeFosse and John Hollister first used it in academic discussions.
- Carl Buijs also used the term around the same time.
The word began circulating in transgender communities, particularly in academic and activist spaces.
- 2007: Julia Serano
Serano’s book Whipping Girl popularised the terms “cissexual” and “cisgender,” bringing them into broader discussions about gender equality and identity. This marked a turning point in the term’s visibility, particularly in English-speaking contexts. - 2008–2009: Mainstream Adoption
By 2008, the term “cisgender” was being used in gender studies classrooms. By 2009, it appeared in peer-reviewed academic publications, cementing its role as a critical term in discussions about gender.
Addressing Misconceptions About Its Origins
One common misconception is that Volkmar Sigusch coined the term “cisgender.” This isn’t true—he coined “cissexual” in 1991, but “cisgender” emerged later in the mid-1990s. Some critics even attack the term by claiming Sigusch was a paedophile, though no evidence supports or refutes this claim. Regardless, this argument is irrelevant to the validity of the term itself.
This kind of reasoning exemplifies a genetic fallacy, where someone rejects a term or idea based on its origin rather than evaluating its current meaning or use. Let’s unpack why this is a logical misstep.
Why Origins Don’t Define a Word
The Genetic Fallacy: A Common Misstep
The genetic fallacy is a logical error where someone dismisses an idea based on its origin, rather than engaging with its present-day application. Even if the person who coined a term had questionable motives (and, to reiterate, there’s no evidence of that here), it wouldn’t invalidate the term itself.
Language evolves. Words often outgrow their origins and take on new meanings. “Cisgender” is a prime example of this. Regardless of how or when it was coined, its current usage is widespread and widely understood, particularly in discussions about gender equality.
Consider other words with contested origins:
- The word “hysterical” comes from the Greek word for “womb” and was originally tied to sexist ideas about women. Yet, today it’s used more broadly (albeit not without critique).
- “Queer” was once a slur but has since been reclaimed by LGBTQ+ communities.
These examples highlight how language is shaped by the people who use it. “Cisgender” is no different. It has evolved into a neutral, descriptive term that helps us have clearer, fairer conversations about gender. Its origins, while interesting, don’t define its validity.
Common Arguments Against “Cisgender” (And Why They Don’t Hold Up)
When I’ve asked people to give me a rational reason why they don’t like the word “cisgender,” I’ve encountered several recurring arguments. On the surface, some of these might seem plausible, but when you dig deeper, they either don’t hold up or reveal deeper issues, like discomfort with equality or unexamined privilege. Let’s break them down.
1. “I Don’t Like It Because I Don’t Like It”
This is, hands down, the most common response I’ve encountered. When asked why they dislike the term “cisgender,” many people simply respond with, “I just don’t like it.” When I press for more, they often double down, looping back to the same point without providing any reasoning.
Why It Doesn’t Hold Up:
This isn’t an argument; it’s an emotional reaction. Saying, “I don’t like it because I don’t like it” is circular reasoning, and it doesn’t tell us anything about why the word bothers them. If a term is neutral and descriptive, as “cisgender” is, disliking it without being able to articulate why suggests an underlying discomfort. That discomfort might be worth examining.
2. “I’m Not Cis, I’m Straight”
Another argument I’ve encountered is the conflation of the terms “cisgender” and “heterosexual.” Some people respond to the use of “cisgender” by saying, “I’m not cis, I’m straight,” as if the two terms are interchangeable. This misunderstanding not only reveals a lack of knowledge about the terms but also undermines the linguistic precision these words provide.
Why It Doesn’t Hold Up:
Cisgender and heterosexual are not the same thing.
- Cisgender refers to the alignment between a person’s gender identity and their assigned sex at birth. If your gender identity aligns with the sex you were assigned at birth, you are cisgender, regardless of your sexual orientation.
- Heterosexual (or straight) refers to sexual orientation, specifically being attracted to people of a different gender.
For example, someone can be:
- Cisgender and heterosexual: Their gender aligns with their assigned sex, and they are attracted to a different gender.
- Cisgender and gay/lesbian: Their gender aligns with their assigned sex, but they are attracted to the same gender.
- Transgender and heterosexual: Their gender does not align with their assigned sex, but they are attracted to a different gender based on their gender identity.
This distinction highlights that these terms operate in entirely different domains—gender identity versus sexual orientation.
Oppositional Prefixes: Cis and Hetero
Interestingly, the prefixes “cis” and “hetero” are linguistic opposites:
- Cis means “on the same side of.”
- Hetero means “different” or “other.”
- This makes the argument “I’m not cis, I’m straight” even more confusing, as it inadvertently suggests that the speaker understands cisgender as a positional descriptor while conflating it with an unrelated term.
Using “straight” as a rejection of “cisgender” misunderstands both terms. Someone rejecting the word “cisgender” with “I’m straight” is essentially misapplying language, which reflects discomfort with acknowledging their gender identity as anything other than the assumed “default.”
Why This Matters:
This confusion often stems from the assumption that terms like “cisgender” are “extra” or unnecessary for people who see themselves as “normal.” By conflating cisgender with heterosexual, individuals unintentionally erase the specific meaning of both terms, undermining the linguistic clarity needed for discussions about gender and sexuality.
Recognising that these terms describe different aspects of identity is essential for fostering understanding. A person’s discomfort with “cisgender” often reveals an unwillingness to examine how their gender identity fits into a broader system of privilege and assumptions about “normalcy.”
3. “Cisgender Is Offensive—It’s Like a Slur”
Some people claim that “cisgender” is offensive and compare it to slurs used against marginalised groups, such as the N-word. This argument relies on the idea that “cisgender” is inherently derogatory, but this comparison simply doesn’t hold up.
Why It Doesn’t Hold Up:
Slurs carry histories of violence, dehumanisation, and systemic oppression. They’ve been weaponised to degrade and harm marginalised groups. The word “cisgender” has no such history. It wasn’t created to demean cis people, nor is it used that way. Instead, it’s a neutral descriptor used to create linguistic equality. Comparing it to slurs is not only inaccurate but also minimises the real harm slurs have caused and continue to cause.
4. “I Don’t Need a Label”
Another common argument is: “I don’t need a label. I’m just normal.” This reflects a privileged mindset that assumes cisgender experiences are the default, while transgender experiences are “different” or “other.”
Why It Doesn’t Hold Up:
When someone says they don’t need a label, what they’re really saying is that their experience is so normalised by society that it doesn’t need to be named. This reinforces linguistic inequality. By refusing the term “cisgender,” they’re implying that trans identities are the only ones that need to be labelled and explained, which inherently positions cisgender as the “normal” or default way to be.
Labels like “cisgender” and “transgender” exist to level the playing field. They allow us to discuss gender without centring one experience as superior or default. If cis people refuse to acknowledge their label, they’re actively maintaining a power imbalance that marginalises trans people.
5. “We Shouldn’t Label Anyone”
Some critics take it a step further and argue that neither cis nor trans people should have labels. “Why can’t we just be people?” they ask. On the surface, this might sound like a fair, inclusive idea, but it doesn’t hold up in practice.
Why It Doesn’t Hold Up:
We live in a world where systemic biases based on gender and sex exist. Pretending these distinctions don’t matter won’t make them go away—it will only reinforce the existing power dynamics. The fact is, cis and trans people experience gender differently, and we need language to discuss those differences. Labels like “cisgender” and “transgender” aren’t about dividing people—they’re about acknowledging and addressing inequality.
In an ideal world, perhaps we wouldn’t need these terms. But in our current reality, where trans people face systemic discrimination, having precise language is essential.
6. “Why Should I Respect Your Pronouns If You Call Me Cisgender?”
Some people argue that using the word “cisgender” is akin to forcing pronouns onto someone. The reasoning goes like this: “If trans people want their pronouns respected, they shouldn’t force me to accept the label ‘cisgender.’”
Why It Doesn’t Hold Up:
This argument misunderstands what “cisgender” is. Pronouns are deeply personal—they’re about how someone wants to be addressed in all contexts. Misusing someone’s pronouns is a direct act of disrespect toward their identity. “Cisgender,” on the other hand, is an objective descriptor. It’s not something you’re “called” in daily conversation; it’s a term used in specific contexts to describe the relationship between gender identity and assigned sex.
Equating the two is a false comparison. Respecting someone’s pronouns is about affirming their identity, while using the word “cisgender” is about creating clarity in discussions about gender. It’s not about identity—it’s about relationships.
7. “I’m Just a Normal Man/Woman—Stop Overcomplicating It”
Some people reject “cisgender” by framing themselves as “normal” men or women. They might say, “I’m just a real man” or “a normal woman,” and accuse those using “cisgender” of overcomplicating something simple.
Why It Doesn’t Hold Up:
Using terms like “normal” and “real” is both vague and harmful. Let’s break it down:
- “Normal”: This term implies that trans people are “abnormal,” which is not only untrue but also perpetuates harmful stereotypes.
- “Real”: This language invalidates trans identities by suggesting that trans men aren’t “real” men and trans women aren’t “real” women. It’s deeply rooted in transphobia and erases the legitimacy of trans experiences.
The reality is that “normal” and “real” are not specific enough to describe the relationship between gender and sex. “Cisgender” provides the clarity we need—it’s a precise, neutral term that simply describes alignment between gender identity and assigned sex. It doesn’t diminish anyone’s identity or experience.
8. “Cisgender Feels Like an Attack on My Identity”
Finally, some people argue that being called “cisgender” feels like an attack on their identity. They perceive the word as accusatory or loaded, as if it’s being used to shame them for being cis.
Why It Doesn’t Hold Up:
Feeling attacked by a neutral descriptor like “cisgender” often comes from a place of discomfort with equality. The word itself doesn’t insult or demean—it simply describes. If someone feels attacked by it, that reaction might stem from an unexamined privilege or an unwillingness to see their own identity as one of many valid experiences.
It’s worth asking: Why does the word “cisgender” feel threatening? If it’s neutral and descriptive, what about it makes you uncomfortable? Often, the answer lies in a resistance to challenging long-held assumptions about gender and privilege.
Why “Cisgender” Helps Level the Playing Field
At this point, we’ve explored the arguments against “cisgender” and why they don’t hold up. But what’s often missing from these discussions is a focus on what the word actually achieves. “Cisgender” isn’t just a neutral term—it’s a powerful tool for fostering equality, creating clarity, and dismantling harmful assumptions about gender. Here’s why it matters.
1. It Creates Linguistic Equality
Without terms like “cisgender” and “transgender,” our conversations about gender would be inherently unequal. Without them, cisgender experiences are treated as the “default” or “normal,” while transgender experiences are labelled and scrutinised. This imbalance reinforces the marginalisation of trans people by centring cisgender identities as the norm.
By using “cisgender” and “transgender” together, we level the linguistic playing field. Both terms describe the relationship between gender identity and assigned sex. Neither is inherently better or worse—they simply reflect different experiences. This equality in language helps ensure that our discussions about gender are fair and balanced.
2. It Challenges Harmful Ideas About “Normal” and “Real”
One of the biggest barriers to equality is the idea that cisgender identities are “normal” or “real,” while transgender identities are not. These ideas are deeply rooted in transphobia and perpetuate harmful stereotypes that dehumanise trans people.
By naming cisgender identities, we disrupt these assumptions. “Cisgender” reminds us that everyone has a relationship with their gender identity and assigned sex—it’s not something only trans people have to think about. This shift in perspective is crucial for breaking down the harmful notion that trans people are “abnormal” or “less real” than their cis counterparts.
3. It Makes Conversations About Gender More Precise
Let’s be honest: words like “normal” and “real” are vague. They don’t tell us anything specific about someone’s experience or identity. “Cisgender,” on the other hand, is precise. It describes a specific relationship: alignment between gender identity and assigned sex.
This precision is invaluable in discussions about gender. Whether we’re talking about systemic biases, healthcare disparities, or representation in media, having clear, specific terms allows us to address these issues effectively. Without words like “cisgender,” these conversations become muddled, and the experiences of marginalised groups risk being erased.
4. It Encourages Self-Reflection
For many cis people, their gender identity is something they’ve never had to think about. Being named as “cisgender” can feel uncomfortable because it forces them to confront something they’ve taken for granted. But this discomfort isn’t a bad thing—it’s an opportunity for growth.
By acknowledging terms like “cisgender,” cis people can start to reflect on their own identities and the privileges that come with them. This self-reflection is a necessary step toward creating a more inclusive society, where everyone’s experiences are valued and respected.
5. It Doesn’t Diminish Anyone’s Identity
One of the biggest misconceptions about “cisgender” is that it diminishes or invalidates cis people’s identities. This simply isn’t true. “Cisgender” isn’t about telling anyone who they are—it’s about describing a relationship between gender and sex. It doesn’t make anyone less of a man, woman, or non-binary person. It simply provides a framework for understanding how their identity fits into a broader context.
In fact, using terms like “cisgender” and “transgender” helps ensure that everyone’s identity is acknowledged and respected. It’s not about diminishing one group—it’s about creating space for all groups to exist and be understood.
6. It’s a Step Toward Equity
Language shapes how we see the world. By using inclusive, precise terms like “cisgender,” we start to dismantle the power imbalances that have historically marginalised trans people. This isn’t just about words—it’s about changing the way we think, talk, and act when it comes to gender.
Acknowledging terms like “cisgender” is a small but significant step toward equity. It signals a willingness to engage with these issues thoughtfully and respectfully, which is crucial for creating a more inclusive society.
Conclusion: Reflecting on “Cisgender”
If you’ve made it this far, you’ve probably realised that there’s no rational reason to dislike the word “cisgender.” It’s a neutral, descriptive term that exists to create clarity and equality in discussions about gender. It doesn’t attack, insult, or diminish anyone—it simply provides a way to talk about the relationship between gender identity and assigned sex.
So why does it provoke such strong reactions? For many, the resistance to “cisgender” comes down to discomfort. It forces people to think about their identity and confront the privilege that comes with being the societal “default.” That discomfort might feel personal, but it’s worth asking: what does it say about your assumptions? Why does a neutral term make you so uncomfortable?
Here are some questions to reflect on:
- Do you feel threatened by the term “cisgender”? If so, why?
- Does your discomfort stem from a fear of change, a resistance to equality, or something else?
- Can you articulate a rational reason for disliking the term that doesn’t rely on circular reasoning, false equivalencies, or emotional reactions?
Why This Word Matters
“Cisgender” isn’t just a word—it’s a tool for building a more inclusive, equitable society. It allows us to talk about gender without centring one experience at the expense of others. It creates space for trans identities to be recognised and validated, while also naming the privileges that come with being cisgender.
This isn’t about making cis people feel bad or taking away their identity. It’s about levelling the playing field so that all identities can be understood and respected. It’s about dismantling harmful assumptions and creating a language that reflects the full diversity of human experiences.
A Challenge to Readers
If you’ve read this and still feel uncomfortable with the term “cisgender,” I’d encourage you to sit with that discomfort. Ask yourself where it comes from. And if you believe you have a rational reason for disliking the word, I’d love to hear it—just be prepared to engage in a meaningful, thoughtful conversation. But please, don’t embarrass yourself with circular reasoning, false comparisons, or other irrational arguments we’ve already discussed.
At the end of the day, “cisgender” is just a word. But words matter. They shape how we understand the world and each other. And if a single word can help us move toward greater equality and understanding, then it’s worth embracing.
References
- Cava, Peter. Cisgender and Cissexual. Retrieved from PeterCava.com.
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