Breaking barriers and embracing inclusivity are vital steps towards creating a more welcoming society. As we strive to be more inclusive, it’s important to recognize the power of language in shaping our perceptions and attitudes. In this blog post, we will explore the concept of gender-neutral language in Spanish, uncovering how it can foster equality and understanding within the LGBTQ+ community. Whether you’re a language enthusiast or simply curious about expanding your linguistic horizons, join us on this journey as we discover the beauty of non-binary expressions in Spanish.
What is gender neutral language
Gender neutral language is a linguistic approach that aims to remove gender-specific terms and expressions from our everyday communication. It challenges the traditional binary framework of male and female, recognizing that gender identity exists on a spectrum. By adopting gender-neutral language, we can create an inclusive environment where individuals of all genders feel seen, respected, and validated.
In many languages, including Spanish, grammatical rules often assign gender to nouns and adjectives. This can perpetuate stereotypes and reinforce societal norms based on a binary understanding of gender. However, there are ways to navigate around these limitations in order to embrace inclusivity.
‘Generic Masculine’ in Spanish
Spanish, while a beautiful and rich language, is considered by many to be a ‘sexist’ / “macho” language!
For example, when discussing a group of feminine nouns, we use all feminine pronouns, articles and adjectives, but it only takes the presence of ONE masculine entity to require that all nouns, pronouns, articles and adjectives become masculine!
The happy girls play → Las chicas contentas juegan
The happy boys play → Los chicos contentos juegan
…but…
The happy children play → Los chicos contentos juegan
Some see this as unfair to women and to people who identify as non-binary.
So, how do we include gender-neutral / non-binary (neither masculine, nor feminine) inclusive language into Spanish?
One way is through the use of “e” or “x” as alternative endings for words that traditionally have masculine or feminine endings. For example: instead of saying “amigo” (male friend) or “amiga” (female friend), one could use the term “amigue.” Adopting non-binary pronouns such as “elle,” which serves as a neutral alternative to both “él” (he) and “ella” (she). These changes may seem small but they hold significant value in acknowledging diverse identities.
There is a LOT of different non-binary language that different Hispanic speakers use; it differs from Hispanic country to Hispanic country.
It can get confusing, however, a good way to start would be to follow this guide…
Gender Neutral Pronouns in Spanish:
| Pronouns | Traditionally | Gender-neutral / non-binary suggestions… |
| I | Yo | Yo |
| You (s) | Tú | Tú |
| She/She | Él/Ella | Elle |
| We (m/f) | Nosotros/as | Nosotres |
| You (pl, m/f) | Vosotros/as | Vosotres |
| They (m/f) | Ellos/as | Elles |
Gender-Neutral Nouns in Spanish:
(used ONLY when referring to people, not objects!)
| ‘Traditional’ Noun ending… | Gender-neutral ending | |||
| Masculine | Singular | –o | Singular | –e |
| Plural | –os | |||
| Feminine | Singular | –a | Plural | –es |
| Plural | –as | |||
| Non-specific | Persona, artista, cantante | No change: already used for masc / fem! | ||
| Exceptions | Madre / Padre / Padres | Xadre / Xadres | ||
| Specific spelling changesSpanish grammar has specific rules on spelling changes when using the letter ‘e’. | Words ending… …become…-co(s) / –ca(s) –que(s)-go(s) / –ga(s) –gue(s) | Ejemplo: Chico / Chica – ChiqueAmigo / Amiga – Amigue | ||
Gender-Neutral Articles in Spanish:
(used ONLY when referring to people, not objects!)
Currently…
| Definite Article(the) | Indefinite Article(a / an) | ||
| Masc | S. | –el | –un |
| Pl. | –los | –unos | |
| Fem | S. | –la | –una |
| Pl. | –las | –unas | |
Gender-neutral / non-binary suggestions…
| Definite Article(the) | Indefinite Article(a / an) | |||
| Gender neutral / non-binary | Singular | –le | –une | |
| Plural | –les | –unes | ||
Gender-Neutral Adjectival Agreement in Spanish:
(used ONLY when referring to people, not objects!)
Currently…
| Adjectival ending… | ||
| Masculine | Singular | –o |
| Plural | –os | |
| Feminine | Singular | –a |
| Plural | –as | |
Gender-neutral / non-binary suggestions…
| Adjectival ending… | ||
| Gender neutral / non-binary | Singular | –e* |
| Plural | –es* | |
It’s important to note that implementing gender-neutral language requires ongoing education and awareness. As with any linguistic change, it takes time for these new expressions to become widely accepted and understood by society at large. Nonetheless, embracing this shift towards inclusivity is a powerful step in creating a more equitable world for everyone regardless of their gender identity or expression.
Some non-binary celebrities include; Demi Lovato, Miley Cyrus, Sam Smith, Jaden Smith and Ruby Rose.
In conclusion… Oops! Sorry about that slip-up; we’re not concluding just yet! It’s crucial to continue discussions surrounding gender-neutral language in Spanish so that everyone feels included and represented. By embracing these changes while respecting differing opinions on the matter, we can work towards creating a more inclusive society for all individuals regardless of their gender identity.
In any case, you can choose if you want to use it or not. No one will judge you if you don’t, especially if it’s not your native language!
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