Neopronoun facts for kids

Neopronoun or neo-pronoun is a special kind of pronoun. It is a new word (a neologism) used to talk about someone in the third-person without saying if they are a boy or a girl. Think of it like a new way to say "he" or "she."

Neopronouns are often used by people who are non-binary. This means they do not feel like they are strictly a boy or a girl. Using neopronouns helps them feel seen and respected.

What Are Neopronouns?

Neopronouns are words that people use to refer to themselves or others. They are like "he," "she," or "they," but they are newer words. People use them when "he," "she," or even singular "they" do not feel right for them.

• Examples of Neopronouns:

* Xe/Xem/Xyr: "Xe went to the store. I saw xem there. That is xyr book." * Fae/Faer/Faers: "Fae is happy. I gave faer a gift. That is faers idea." * Ze/Hir/Hirs: "Ze likes to read. I told hir a story. That is hirs favorite book."

These pronouns work just like other pronouns. They help us talk about people without repeating their names.

Why Do People Use Neopronouns?

People use neopronouns for several reasons. The main reason is to feel more comfortable and accurately described.

• For Identity: Some people feel that traditional pronouns like "he" or "she" do not fit who they are. Neopronouns can help them express their unique identity.
• Respect and Inclusion: Using someone's correct pronouns shows respect. It helps create a welcoming space for everyone. When someone shares their neopronouns, it is polite to use them.
• Language Evolution: Languages change over time. New words are always being added. Neopronouns are an example of how English is growing to meet new needs.

How to Use Neopronouns

Using neopronouns is simpler than it might seem. You just use them in sentences like you would any other pronoun.

• Listen and Learn: If someone tells you their neopronouns, try to remember them.
• Practice: It might feel new at first, but with practice, it becomes easier.
• Polite Questions: If you are unsure what pronouns someone uses, it is okay to ask politely. You can say, "What pronouns do you use?" or "What pronouns should I use for you?"
• Mistakes Happen: If you accidentally use the wrong pronoun, simply correct yourself and move on. For example, "Xe went to the park... I mean, ze went to the park."

History of Neopronouns

The idea of creating new pronouns is not brand new. People have been trying to make gender-neutral pronouns for a long time.

• Early Ideas: In the 1800s, some people suggested words like "thon" or "he/she" to avoid always saying "he."
• Modern Use: In recent years, especially with more understanding of different gender identities, neopronouns have become more common. The internet has helped people share and learn about these new words.
• Growing Acceptance: More and more people are learning about and using neopronouns. This shows how language can adapt to better describe the world and the people in it.