LGBTQ+ is an acronym used to represent a diverse range of sexualities and gender-identities. The acronym refers to and can include those who self-define as:

• lesbian.
• gay.
• bisexual.
• transgender.
• queer.
• questioning.
• non-binary.
• intersex.
• asexual.
• pansexual.

Acronyms serve an important purpose as they are designed to make sure that everyone feels more included within the LGBTQ+ communities.

When using language relating to the LGBTQ+ community, the most important thing is to be kind and respectful. If you’re ever unsure how a person describes themselves and wants to be described by others, just ask.

Mosaic

Below are some definitions for key terms relating to LGBTQ+ identities and experiences that we use on Mosaic.

• Intersex - A term used to describe a person who has biological attributes of both male and female sexes or whose biological attributes do not fit with societal or medical assumptions about what constitutes male or female.
• Non-binary - A term for people whose gender doesn’t sit comfortably with ‘man’ or ‘woman’. Non-binary identities are varied and can include people who identify with some aspects of binary identities, while others reject them entirely.
• Trans Female – A term used to describe a woman who was assigned male at birth. People may also use to trans woman, or MTF (an abbreviation for male-to-female).
• Trans Male - A term used to describe a man who was assigned female at birth. People may also use trans man, or FTM (an abbreviation for female-to-male).

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Useful links

For more information on language to use to refer to the LGBTQ+ community see:

• Stonewall List of LGBTQ+ terms.
• Forum+ Glossary of LGBTQ terms, which gives in depth explanation about terminology including people’s sexual orientation, gender identities and Trans Terminology.
• King’s College London ABC of LGBT+ Inclusive Communication, A guide for health and social care professionals, which provides more information on how to use inclusive language.