Agender vs. Neutrois — What's the Difference?
By Tayyaba Rehman & Fiza Rafique — Updated on May 15, 2024
Agender individuals do not identify with any gender, while Neutrois often identify as neutral or null gender, focusing on identity rather than absence.
Difference Between Agender and Neutrois
Table of Contents
ADVERTISEMENT
Key Differences
Agender refers to a gender identity where an individual feels they have no gender at all. This identity highlights the absence of gender, with individuals often describing themselves as genderless or lacking a gender identity. On the other hand, Neutrois is often characterized by a neutral or null gender identity, where the emphasis is more on having a specific, neutral gender rather than an absence of one.
While both agender and Neutrois people might seek to present themselves in a way that aligns with their gender identity, which can include androgynous or neutral presentation, the motives can differ. Agender individuals often aim for a lack of gendered expression to reflect their identity, whereas Neutrois individuals might focus on achieving a deliberately neutral gender expression.
In terms of personal identification, agender people typically do not associate with any gender labels and might avoid gendered language and pronouns, preferring 'they/them' or gender-neutral alternatives. Neutrois individuals may also use gender-neutral pronouns but their identity might involve a conscious claim of neutrality rather than simply an absence, and they might still engage with gendered concepts differently.
Regarding community and visibility, both agender and Neutrois identities challenge traditional gender norms and contribute to the broader non-binary community. However, Neutrois might be seen within the community as a more specific assertion of identity compared to the broader and sometimes more ambiguous label of agender.
In terms of psychological and social recognition, both identities may face challenges in being understood and accepted. Agender individuals often face erasure or denial of their identity because it involves a complete disassociation from gender, while Neutrois individuals might struggle with having their neutral gender recognized as legitimate since it's less known and often misunderstood as simply androgynous.
ADVERTISEMENT
Comparison Chart
Definition
No gender identity
Neutral or null gender identity
Focus on Identity
Absence of gender
Specific neutrality of gender
Common Pronouns
They/them, other gender-neutral pronouns
Often they/them, specific neutral pronouns
Expression
Genderless or lack of gender expression
Deliberately neutral gender expression
Community Recognition
Part of broader non-binary community
More specific within non-binary community
Compare with Definitions
Agender
Identifying as having no gender.
Alex identifies as agender and prefers not to be associated with any gender-specific pronouns.
Neutrois
A distinct non-binary identity that is not male, female, or a mix.
Alex feels that being Neutrois captures their experience of gender more accurately than being labeled male or female.
Agender
The absence of gender identity.
Being agender means Sam feels no connection to any gender.
Neutrois
Identifying as neutral or null in terms of gender.
Taylor is Neutrois and finds that neutral pronouns best reflect their identity.
Agender
Lacking a gender label.
Jordan describes their agender status as being free from gender constraints.
Neutrois
The specific identity of feeling neither male nor female.
Morgan identifies as Neutrois, which for them means having a gender that is neutral.
Agender
The state of being gender neutral by default.
Chris is agender and often has to explain what it means to not identify with any gender.
Neutrois
Aligning with neutrality rather than no gender.
Jamie, who is Neutrois, dresses in a way that avoids any gendered implications.
Agender
Not aligning with any traditional gender categories.
Pat's agender identity is integral to their personal understanding of self.
Neutrois
A gender identity that is intentionally neutral.
Casey's Neutrois identity is about embodying neutrality rather than absence.
Agender
Of or relating to a person who identifies as having no gender.
Agender
Of or relating to a person who identifies as having a neutral gender.
Agender
Without an associated gender (in any sense); not having a particular gender.
An agender noun includes both the masculine and feminine forms.
Common Curiosities
How do agender and Neutrois identities relate to the non-binary community?
Both are part of the non-binary community, though Neutrois is often seen as a more specific assertion within it.
How are agender and Neutrois identities recognized legally?
Recognition varies widely, with some places offering more comprehensive legal recognition of non-binary genders than others.
What is the main difference between agender and Neutrois?
The main difference is that agender individuals identify with having no gender, while Neutrois individuals identify with a neutral or null gender.
Can someone be both agender and Neutrois?
While typically distinct, individual experiences of gender can vary, and someone might identify with aspects of both.
What are the social implications of identifying as Neutrois?
Neutrois individuals may struggle with social acceptance and finding appropriate resources that respect their identity.
How do healthcare providers approach agender and Neutrois identities?
Progressive healthcare providers strive to respect and acknowledge these identities but gaps in understanding and training can exist.
What types of discrimination might Neutrois individuals face?
Neutrois individuals might face discrimination in areas like employment, healthcare, and legal recognition due to their unique gender identity.
Do both agender and Neutrois individuals use gender-neutral pronouns?
Yes, both groups often use gender-neutral pronouns, though their choices might reflect their specific identities differently.
What challenges do agender people face?
Agender people often face challenges related to visibility, acceptance, and misunderstanding of their gender absence.
Is there a cultural aspect to agender and Neutrois identities?
While influenced by individual experiences, these identities also interact with broader cultural understandings of gender.
How can allies support agender and Neutrois individuals?
Allies can support by educating themselves, respecting pronouns and identities, and advocating for broader acceptance and recognition.
Why might someone choose to identify as Neutrois rather than agender?
Choosing to identify as Neutrois might reflect a specific identification with neutrality rather than an absence of gender.
Can understanding of agender and Neutrois identities improve mental health outcomes?
Yes, understanding and affirming someone’s identity can significantly improve their mental health and overall well-being.
What does gender expression look like for agender vs. Neutrois individuals?
Both may opt for androgynous styles, but their intentions can differ; agender may seek to avoid all gender markers, while Neutrois may aim specifically for neutrality.
What terminology is appropriate when discussing agender and Neutrois identities?
Using terms and pronouns that individuals identify with, and avoiding assumptions about their gender, are crucial for respectful interaction.
Share Your Discovery
Previous Comparison
Evaluation vs. Comparison
Next Comparison
Artifact vs. ArtAuthor Spotlight
Written by
Tayyaba RehmanTayyaba Rehman is a distinguished writer, currently serving as a primary contributor to askdifference.com. As a researcher in semantics and etymology, Tayyaba's passion for the complexity of languages and their distinctions has found a perfect home on the platform. Tayyaba delves into the intricacies of language, distinguishing between commonly confused words and phrases, thereby providing clarity for readers worldwide.
Co-written by
Fiza RafiqueFiza Rafique is a skilled content writer at AskDifference.com, where she meticulously refines and enhances written pieces. Drawing from her vast editorial expertise, Fiza ensures clarity, accuracy, and precision in every article. Passionate about language, she continually seeks to elevate the quality of content for readers worldwide.
