Introduction
Practical terms for sexuality and gender play a significant role in clarifying their definitions and fostering the development of both independent and mutual identities. The distinction of terms enables individuals to recognize their own identity, while categories based on these terms facilitate the process of connecting with like-minded communities. These positive aspects are particularly beneficial for sexual minorities and others who are discovering their sexual identities. In this article, we will discuss some practical terms related to lesbians.
Why Does Learning Lesbian Terms Matter?
Lesbians are often categorized in a limited number of ways, yet the term “lesbian” encompasses a wide variety of identities, just as heterosexuals have different preferences and types.
As a member or ally of a shared society, understanding lesbian terms can help you better appreciate gender diversity and promote inclusivity in the community. It broadens the understanding of lesbians, who are often misunderstood and stereotyped, for example, as “all lesbians dress boyish” or “lesbians are masculine and aggressive.”
The more you learn about lesbians, including their terms and types, the more likely you are to avoid prejudice or unconscious discriminatory actions.
For lesbians, bisexuals, or other women falling in love with another woman, acknowledging lesbian terms helps clarify their preferences and allows them to better understand how they may be categorized within the lesbian community. This is especially true for “baby gays” — those new to identifying as gay — who may find it difficult to describe or fit into their lesbian type without knowing the terminology.
While fitting in is not always necessary, it can be more efficient, particularly if you are seeking a partner within the lesbian community. Moreover, in today’s sexually diverse world, we cannot predict who will identify as lesbian. Understanding lesbian terms is the first step toward showing respect, understanding, and thoughtfulness toward the LGBTQ+ community.
Lesbian Type Terms
Masc / Boi (マスク・ボイ)
“Masc” is a lesbian term often used to refer to lesbians who enjoy masculine expression or fashion. While “Masc” is a common term in English-speaking countries, “Boi” is more frequently used in the Japanese lesbian community, carrying the same meaning. These individuals often dress in men’s clothing and adopt a more masculine style compared to the typical feminine presentation.
Femme (フェム)
“Femme” refers to lesbians who embrace a traditionally feminine style and attitude. They often wear clothes, makeup, and jewelry associated with femininity. Femme lesbians are typically seen as “lady-like” or “girlish.”
Butch (ブッチ)
“Butch” is a term for lesbians who adopt masculinity in both appearance and behavior. They tend to have very short hair and dress in masculine fashion, though this does not mean they identify as men or wish to be men. They enjoy dressing in masculine styles and often build up their bodies to maintain a sense of masculinity and strength.
Tomboy (トムボーイ・ボーイッシュ・ボイ)
“Tomboy” refers to women who enjoy “boy-like” fashion in everyday settings. For example, wearing jeans and a hat or sporting short, boyish hair. While this term is not limited to the lesbian community, it is used more generally to describe women with a boyish style.
Androgynous (中性)
“Androgynous” is a term for people who prefer not to categorize themselves strictly as either male or female. They often dress in gender-neutral fashion, making it difficult to determine their gender based solely on appearance. In English, the term “Androgynous” is sometimes replaced by “Queer,” as both terms share similar definitions.
Lesbian Stereotypes and Reality in Japan
Media’s Influence on Lesbian Stereotypes
In the 1980s and 1990s, the media often portrayed lesbians through the lens of the Butch/Femme binary, reinforcing stereotypes and limiting the understanding of lesbian identities to just these two categories. Butch lesbians, in particular, were often depicted as desiring to abandon their femininity, which led to misunderstandings about their identities.
As the media predominantly focused on Butch lesbians, Femme lesbians faced discrimination, with some being labeled as “fake” lesbians or “heteronormative,” causing significant stress and identity confusion.
However, as acceptance of LGBTQ+ individuals has spread globally, media portrayals of lesbians are gradually evolving. The focus has shifted away from rigid stereotypes, and social media, along with other media types, have played a significant role in expanding the understanding of diverse lesbian identities.
The number of television shows, dramas, and movies featuring lesbians in non-stereotypical ways has increased, and fans of same-sex romances have become more vocal. The media holds significant power to promote gender diversity and enhance the accurate representation of minorities.
The Reality of Lesbian Culture
While global understanding of LGBTQ+ issues is growing, society’s acceptance of gender diversity is still a work in progress, especially in Japan. Despite increasing awareness of LGBTQ+ rights worldwide, sexual minorities in Japan still face challenges due to the country’s legal and societal systems.
In Japan, same-sex marriage is not yet legalized, and pregnancy options for lesbian couples remain limited and underdeveloped. The legal system is not particularly friendly toward lesbians, but societal attitudes are gradually shifting.
In recent decades, hatred, prejudice, and discrimination against lesbians and other gender minorities have decreased significantly, and LGBTQ+ topics are becoming more visible in mainstream media. These developments are the first steps toward a truly diverse and inclusive society.
Manners When Using Lesbian Terms in Japan
Asking About Their Identity
It is natural to be curious about someone’s identity or type as a lesbian, but asking about it in the first conversation is not ideal. Many people find such questions rude or disrespectful, which can lead to a negative impression, whether or not it was intentional.
Use “Bian (ビアン)” Instead of “Les (レズ)” As Abbreviation
In Japan, the terms “Bian (ビアン)” and “Les (レズ)” are both commonly used as abbreviations for lesbian. However, some members of the lesbian community view “Les (レズ)” as a derogatory term, especially when used by non-lesbians. “Bian (ビアン)” is generally seen as a more neutral term, but it’s still best to avoid abbreviations if you’re unfamiliar with their connotations.
Do Not Call Lesbian “Yuri”
It is important to distinguish between “Yuri” (a Japanese cultural genre depicting romance between two girls) and real-life lesbian identities. While many lesbians enjoy “Yuri” content, some may feel uncomfortable with the portrayal of lesbians as mere entertainment. Since you cannot always know how someone feels about “Yuri,” it’s best to avoid using the term when discussing real-life lesbians.
Avoid Using Lesbian Terms As Humor
Using lesbian terms as a joke is generally seen as disrespectful and discriminatory toward LGBTQ+ individuals. While it’s possible that lesbians or other sexual minorities might joke about their own identities, it’s important for non-LGBTQ+ individuals to refrain from using these terms as humor. Even if you become close to the community, it’s advisable to avoid using lesbian terms for comedic purposes.
More LGBTQ+ Terms You Must Know in Japan
Japanese Gay & Lesbian Slang
In addition to lesbian terminology, there are many other terms related to sexual minorities in Japanese that are worth learning in today’s gender-diverse society.
Conclusion
Learning lesbian terms is a valuable step for those exploring their sexual identities, as well as for lesbians seeking a deeper understanding of themselves. Furthermore, it enables people outside the LGBTQ+ community to properly understand sexual minorities, fostering acceptance in today’s gender-diverse society. We hope this article on lesbian terms has been helpful, whether you are a lesbian or not.
