What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
gender
Example
Gender stereotypes often limit opportunities for women in the workplace. [gender: noun]
Example
The doctor asked about the patient's gender identity. [gender: noun]
Example
In Spanish, the word 'amigo' is masculine gendered. [gendered: adjective]
identity
Example
She struggled with her identity as a first-generation immigrant. [identity: noun]
Example
He found his identity as an artist after years of exploring different mediums. [identity: noun]
Example
They identified as non-binary and preferred they/them pronouns. [identified: verb]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Gender is a more common term than identity in everyday language, especially in discussions of social justice and equality. However, identity is becoming more widely used and recognized in various contexts.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between gender and identity?
Both gender and identity can be used in formal and informal contexts, but gender is more likely to be used in academic or technical settings.
