What Does 'AMAB' & 'AFAB' Mean? - LGBTQ Nation

The terms “AMAB” and “AFAB” often come up in LGBTQ+ discussions and spaces. If you’ve just started exploring your own sexuality or are an ally who wants to do right by your LGBTQ+ friends, learning the proper terminology can help you gain a better understanding of the LGBTQ+ experience.

Here’s a deeper dive into what these terms mean and their significance in today’s world.

Understanding AMAB and AFAB

AMAB stands for “assigned male at birth,” while AFAB means “assigned female at birth.”

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These terms highlight the sex assigned to a person at birth based on visible anatomy. Importantly, these labels don’t dictate a person’s gender identity, which is a deeply personal and internal sense of one’s own gender.

Historically, terms like MTF (male-to-female) and FTM (female-to-male) were used in transgender discussions. However, these have been reassessed due to their implications that transgender people change from one gender to another.

@sunnymegatron

Reply to @shybaby32 What is #AFAB ? It’s an acronym for assigned female at birth ☺️

♬ Everyday BGM of warmhearted anime – Hazumi

In contrast, the terms AMAB and AFAB help separate biological sex from gender identity, enabling a more nuanced discussion around gender. As society progresses, there’s growing recognition that sex assigned at birth doesn’t always align with one’s gender identity. This awareness fosters inclusivity and helps challenge traditional gender norms.

That said, AGAB (assigned gender at birth) terminology isn’t without its controversies—especially when it comes to classifying nonbinary or intersex individuals given the inherently binary focus of the terms.

@nonstopcolepop

Think about the assumptions you’re making about AMAB and AFAB before using it #trans #nonbinary

♬ original sound – Cole

People who are nonbinary don’t strictly identify as male or female. They may also undergo steps to affirm their gender identity, including using gender-neutral pronouns and changing their appearance. While some nonbinary people identify as trans, not all do.

Both trans and nonbinary people may refer to themselves as AMAB or AFAB when necessary, but might not as well.

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Sex vs gender vs gender identity

Sex, gender, and gender identity are independent components of our lived experiences. Sex is a label that is assigned to you based on your sex characteristics. In contrast, your gender—in particular, your gender identity—is your innermost conception of your maleness or femaleness and how you feel inside, which can also translate to how you present yourself on the outside.

AMAB (and AFAB) are inclusive descriptors that are meant to emphasize that, as children, we are assigned a sex based solely on external characteristics. However, this label is incomplete, as your gender identity and expression are parts of your identity that only you can determine for yourself.

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Embracing gender diversity

Understanding and using terms like AMAB and AFAB is a vital step towards fostering a more inclusive world where everyone’s identity is acknowledged and respected. As we continue to learn and engage with topics of gender diversity, we pave the way for a society that values each individual’s unique experience.

Let these terms inspire curiosity and compassion, encouraging us to question norms and celebrate the rich tapestry of human identity. By embracing these concepts, we contribute to a community where acceptance isn’t just an ideal but a lived reality.

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