Agender vs. Genderless — What's the Difference?
By Urooj Arif & Maham Liaqat — Updated on May 7, 2024
Agender refers to a person who identifies as having no gender or being gender-neutral, while genderless emphasizes the absence of gender entirely. Both concepts challenge traditional gender norms but differ in the perception of identity.
Difference Between Agender and Genderless
Table of Contents
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Key Differences
Agender describes individuals who identify as not having a gender, embracing a neutral or absent gender identity. Genderless, on the other hand, specifically denotes a complete lack of gender identity altogether.
Agender individuals may still present themselves in a particular way or use pronouns, whereas those identifying as genderless might avoid any presentation tied to gender norms.
Agender is often used in a self-identifying context where one feels neither male nor female, while genderless might imply an intentional separation from all gendered distinctions.
Agender people may navigate society's expectations using labels that best represent their experience, whereas genderless people often reject labels that classify them by gender.
Agender can imply a personal sense of gender neutrality, whereas genderless often signifies a more radical rejection of the concept of gender entirely.
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Comparison Chart
Identity
Identifies as having no gender
Emphasizes a complete absence of gender identity
Pronouns
May still use specific pronouns
May prefer avoiding pronouns or use neutral terms
Self-Perception
Neutral or undefined gender identity
Separation from gender categories
Social Presentation
Sometimes adheres to specific gender expressions
Often rejects all gender norms
Context
Self-identification as neither male nor female
Intentional avoidance of gender classification
Compare with Definitions
Agender
Avoiding traditional gender categorizations.
The agender person felt comfortable in gender-neutral clothing.
Genderless
A complete lack of gender identity.
They feel more comfortable identifying as genderless.
Agender
Not identifying as any gender.
They identify as agender and prefer using neutral pronouns.
Genderless
Beyond specific identities, encompassing all or none.
The concept of a universal, genderless society was intriguing to the author.
Agender
Personally chosen identification outside male or female.
Their agender identity is self-identified and significant.
Genderless
Without any gender characteristics.
The character in the story was portrayed as entirely genderless.
Agender
Not strictly fitting into male or female categories.
Their agender identity is a form of non-binary expression.
Genderless
Existing outside of gender norms entirely.
They wanted to express their genderless identity through neutral clothing.
Agender
Not defining oneself by a specific gender.
The agender community supports those with undefined gender identities.
Genderless
Avoiding any labels associated with gender.
The genderless individual didn't wish to conform to labels.
Agender
Of or relating to a person who identifies as having no gender.
Genderless
The fact of being classified as belonging to such a category
Agreement in gender, number, and case.
Agender
Of or relating to a person who identifies as having a neutral gender.
Genderless
One's identity as female or male or as neither entirely female nor entirely male.
Agender
Without an associated gender (in any sense); not having a particular gender.
An agender noun includes both the masculine and feminine forms.
Genderless
Females or males considered as a group
Students lined up with the genders in different lines.
Genderless
To engender.
Genderless
Without a gender, in its various senses.
A genderless noun includes both the masculine and feminine forms.
Genderless
Having no gender.
Common Curiosities
Is agender a form of non-binary identity?
Yes, agender falls under the broader non-binary umbrella.
Do genderless individuals avoid using labels altogether?
They often prefer to avoid labels that classify them by gender.
Can someone who identifies as agender use gendered pronouns?
Yes, agender individuals may still use pronouns that best reflect their preferences.
Is being agender linked to specific pronouns?
No, agender individuals use a variety of pronouns.
Do agender and genderless mean the same thing?
No, agender implies a neutral or undefined gender, whereas genderless implies a complete lack of gender.
How does genderless identity affect social interactions?
Some genderless individuals may avoid specific gender norms in their social interactions.
Is there a difference between agender and genderless?
Yes, agender involves identifying as not having a gender, while genderless means an absence of gender identity.
Can genderless individuals identify with traditional gender roles?
They often reject traditional gender roles due to their lack of gender identity.
Can someone be agender and still present themselves in gendered ways?
Yes, agender individuals can present themselves in ways that may appear gendered.
Does genderless imply a universal human identity?
It might be seen that way, emphasizing an identity beyond specific gender categories.
Is there a particular look associated with agender or genderless individuals?
No, people express their identity in diverse ways, regardless of gender labels.
Is there a specific term for people who identify as neither male nor female?
Agender and other non-binary terms can describe people who identify beyond the male/female binary.
Is agender an accepted identity in society?
Yes, it is increasingly recognized and understood.
Are agender people part of the LGBTQ+ community?
Yes, agender people are recognized as part of the LGBTQ+ community.
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Written by
Urooj ArifUrooj is a skilled content writer at Ask Difference, known for her exceptional ability to simplify complex topics into engaging and informative content. With a passion for research and a flair for clear, concise writing, she consistently delivers articles that resonate with our diverse audience.
Co-written by
Maham Liaqat
