Definition of Gender
Quick Meaning of Gender
Whether a person is male, female, or another identity. Also a grammar term for classifying words in some languages.
Detailed Definition of Gender
The state of being male, female, or another gender identity; or a grammatical category for classifying nouns in some languages.
How to Pronounce Gender
Stress pattern: Oo (2-syllable word).
Tip: Stress the first syllable: JEN-der. The 'g' sounds like 'j', and the final 'er' is quick and unstressed.
Watch out: Some learners pronounce the 'g' hard (like 'gate') instead of soft (like 'jello'). Say: JEN-der, not GEN-der.
Origin and Etymology of Gender
From Latin 'genus' (kind, sort, birth). Related to 'generate' and 'genetic'. Entered English in 14th century with grammatical sense; modern social sense developed in 20th century.
How to Use Gender in a Sentence
Each example shows “gender” with a CEFR level so learners can pick examples that match their fluency.
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“The survey asked participants about their age, gender, and employment status.”
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“In Spanish, all nouns have a gender: either masculine or feminine.”
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“Gender equality is an important goal in modern societies.”
Synonyms and Antonyms of Gender
Common Synonyms for Gender
Smart Synonyms for Gender — When to Use Each
- sex
- Biological designation; more specific but less commonly used
- identity
- Broader term; includes gender expression and social aspects
Common Collocations with Gender
These phrases pair with “gender” in everyday English:
- gender equality
- gender identity
- gender roles
- gender bias
- gender differences
Common Mistakes When Using Gender
Even fluent speakers slip up with “gender”. Here’s how to avoid the most common errors:
- ✗ Wrong: What is your gender? Male, female, or other?
- ✓ Correct: What is your gender? Male, female, non-binary, or other?
- Why: Modern usage recognizes gender identities beyond male and female.
- ✗ Wrong: The gender of the French word 'table' is masculine.
- ✓ Correct: The gender of the French word 'table' is feminine.
- Why: In French, 'table' is feminine (la table), not masculine. Always verify grammatical gender.
- ✗ Wrong: Genders are determined only by biology.
- ✓ Correct: Gender identity involves both biological and social factors.
- Why: Gender is understood as multifaceted, not purely biological.
Words Confused With Gender
- Gender vs Sex: Sex refers to biological characteristics; gender refers to social and cultural identity
Other Forms of Gender
Frequently Asked Questions About Gender
What is the meaning of "Gender"?
Whether a person is male, female, or another identity. Also a grammar term for classifying words in some languages.
How do you pronounce "Gender"?
The IPA is /ˈdʒendər/. Stress the first syllable: JEN-der. The 'g' sounds like 'j', and the final 'er' is quick and unstressed.
What part of speech is "Gender"?
"Gender" is a noun at B2 level (Common European Framework).
What are synonyms for "Gender"?
Common synonyms include sex, identity, category.
How do you use "Gender" in a sentence?
For example: "The survey asked participants about their age, gender, and employment status."