non-binary

/ˌnɒn ˈbaɪnəri/ (bre, ipa) · /ˌnɑːn ˈbaɪnəri/ (ame, ipa)

non-binary — adjective

1. involving more than only two possible groups, sides, or results

1.形容詞C1
釋義

involving more than only two possible groups, sides, or results

例句

The survey uses a non-binary scale instead of simple yes-or-no answers.

non-binary scale with more than two response options

Our teacher chose a non-binary grade system with five result bands.

non-binary grade system with several levels

反義詞
  • binary

    used when something is limited to only two categories or values

用法筆記

Usually describes systems, choices, or patterns that allow more than two options. Distinguish from sense 2, which is specifically about gender identity.

常見錯誤

The quiz is non-binary because it has two possible answers.
The quiz is binary because it has two possible answers.
💡'non-binary' means there are more than two categories or options.

2. describing a person whose gender is not understood only as male or female

2.形容詞B2
釋義

describing a person whose gender is not understood only as male or female

例句

Camille is non-binary and uses they/them pronouns at work.

be non-binary + use they/them pronouns

Haruto came out as non-binary during a talk with friends.

identify as non-binary in a personal conversation

同義詞
  • genderqueer

    often overlaps strongly, but some people prefer it as a more personal identity label

  • gender-diverse

    broader umbrella term that covers several identities outside a simple male-female division

文法句型

be non-binary

identify as non-binary

用法筆記

Often appears after 'identify as' or with nouns like 'person', 'student', and 'actor'. Some non-binary people use they/them pronouns, but pronoun choice depends on the individual.

常見錯誤

My friend is non-binary, so I should guess the right pronoun.
My friend is non-binary, so I should use the pronouns they asked for.
💡pronouns depend on the person, not on outside guesses.