neopronoun

Neopronouns are pronouns used by some people in place of the traditional he, she, or they pronouns. They are chosen to reflect a person’s gender identity, preferences, or linguistic style, and to provide options beyond widely used pronouns. The term covers a variety of nontraditional sets that individuals may request others to use.

Common neopronoun sets include ze/zir/zirs and xe/xem/xyr/xyrs, with other sets such as ve/ver/vis and per/pers also in circulation. Each set typically has forms for subject, object, possessive determiner, possessive pronoun, and reflexive use. For example, in the ze/zir set: ze is the subject, zir is the object and possessive determiner, zirs is the possessive pronoun, and zirself is the reflexive form. In the xe/xem/xyr/xyrs set: xe is the subject, xem is the object, xyr serves as the possessive determiner, xyrs as the possessive pronoun, and xemself or xyrself as the reflexive form in some variants.

Usage and etiquette: individuals may introduce their pronouns in introductions, emails, or signatures, and people should use the pronouns requested. If a mistake occurs, a brief correction is appropriate and respectful. Some institutions and style guides encourage including pronoun fields in forms and communications to promote inclusivity.

Reception and context: neopronouns are part of broader conversations about gender diversity and inclusive language. Attitudes toward their use vary, with supporters highlighting personal autonomy and visibility, and critics sometimes citing readability or consistency concerns. The practice is most common in communities and regions where discussions of gender and language intersect.

See also: pronoun, gender identity, gender-neutral language.