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A2 noun #3,000 most common 10 min read

性别

xingbie Top 3,000

Practice it Examples Notes & Tips 性别 in 30 Seconds

Explanation 性别 in your Level:

At the A1 level, you only need to recognize '性别' (xìngbié) as a word you see on forms. It simply means 'Gender'. When you see this word on a website or a paper application, it is asking if you are a male or a female. You will usually see two choices next to it: '男' (nán) for male and '女' (nǚ) for female. At this stage, don't worry about using it in complex sentences. Just remember that '性别' is the label for the 'M/F' box. You might hear a teacher or a clerk say it when they are checking your information. For example, they might point to a form and say '性别填这里' (Fill in gender here). Think of it as a basic vocabulary word for personal information, similar to '姓名' (name) and '年龄' (age). It's a very practical word for travelers or people starting to live in China because you will encounter it every time you register for something, like a SIM card or a hotel stay. A good way to remember it is that the first character '性' has a heart radical on the left, and the second character '别' has a knife radical on the right, which helps distinguish between things.

At the A2 level, you should be able to use '性别' (xìngbié) in simple sentences and understand it when spoken in clear, slow Chinese. You should know that it is a noun and that it refers to the category of being male or female. You can use it in questions like '你的性别是什么？' (What is your gender?), although this is quite formal. More importantly, you should be able to understand phrases like '不同性别' (different genders) or '性别要求' (gender requirements). At this level, you might encounter the word in short reading passages about people's profiles or simple surveys. It is important to distinguish '性别' from '性格' (xìnggé), which means personality. Remember: '性别' is about biology and forms; '性格' is about how a person acts. You should also be comfortable using '男' and '女' as the answers to the '性别' question. For example, if someone asks '你的性别？', you can simply reply '男' or '女'. You are starting to see how Chinese uses specific nouns for administrative categories, and '性别' is one of the most common ones you will face in your daily life.

At the B1 level, you can use '性别' (xìngbié) in more varied contexts, such as discussing social issues or describing data. You should be familiar with common collocations like '性别平等' (gender equality) and '性别歧视' (gender discrimination). You can participate in simple discussions about how gender affects life, such as '性别对找工作有影响吗？' (Does gender affect finding a job?). Your understanding of the word should move beyond just filling out forms. You should recognize it in news headlines or short articles discussing population trends. For instance, you might read about '性别比' (sex ratio) in a report about a city's population. At this stage, you should also be aware of the formal nature of the word. While you might use '男生/女生' (boy/girl) or '男人/女人' (man/woman) in casual talk, you use '性别' when you want to speak more objectively or professionally. You can also use it to modify other nouns, such as '性别差异' (gender differences) to talk about how men and women might have different preferences or behaviors in a general sense.

At the B2 level, you should have a nuanced understanding of '性别' (xìngbié) and be able to use it in academic or professional discussions. You can talk about '性别角色' (gender roles) and how they are changing in modern society. You should be able to understand and use more complex terms like '性别偏见' (gender bias) or '性别多元化' (gender diversity). In a business context, you might discuss '性别比例平衡' (gender balance) in the workplace. You should be able to follow a debate or a lecture where '性别' is a key variable being analyzed. For example, you might hear a sociologist discuss '性别在社会化过程中的作用' (the role of gender in the process of socialization). At this level, your use of the word should be precise. You understand that '性别' can refer to both biological sex and social gender, although '社会性别' is the more specific term for the latter. You can also write short essays or reports using '性别' as a category for data analysis, demonstrating your ability to handle formal Chinese vocabulary in a structured way.

At the C1 level, you can use '性别' (xìngbié) to engage in deep, abstract discussions about identity, policy, and social theory. You are comfortable with the word appearing in legal documents, high-level academic papers, and sophisticated literature. You can discuss the nuances between '生理性别' (biological sex) and '心理性别' (psychological gender/gender identity). You should be able to critique '性别刻板印象' (gender stereotypes) and discuss their impact on media and education. Your vocabulary includes related high-level terms like '性别主流化' (gender mainstreaming) or '性别重置' (gender reassignment). You can analyze how '性别' intersects with other social categories like class or ethnicity in complex texts. In a professional setting, you could lead a workshop on '性别敏感度' (gender sensitivity). You understand the historical evolution of the word and how its usage in Chinese media has shifted alongside global conversations about gender. You are able to use the word in a way that reflects a sophisticated understanding of both the Chinese language and the cultural/political context surrounding gender issues in the Sinophone world.

At the C2 level, your mastery of '性别' (xìngbié) is indistinguishable from that of an educated native speaker. You can use the word in any context, from extremely formal legal and legislative drafting to highly abstract philosophical inquiries. You can discuss '性别解构' (gender deconstruction) or '性别本质主义' (gender essentialism) with precision and ease. You are capable of analyzing classical Chinese texts to see how concepts of '性别' were expressed before the modern term was standardized. You can navigate the most sensitive and complex discussions regarding gender politics in China, understanding the subtle connotations and political weight the word may carry in different environments. Whether you are writing a doctoral thesis on gendered language or negotiating international human rights frameworks in Chinese, you use '性别' and its related concepts with absolute accuracy, cultural sensitivity, and stylistic flair. You also understand the most recent linguistic developments, such as how internet slang or queer subcultures might be challenging or expanding the traditional boundaries of the word '性别' in contemporary Chinese discourse.

Practice it Examples Notes & Tips

性别 in 30 Seconds

性别 (xìngbié) is the standard Chinese noun for 'gender' or 'sex'.
It is essential for filling out forms and identifying as male (男) or female (女).
Do not confuse it with 性格 (xìnggé), which means personality.
It is used in both biological and sociological contexts across all levels of formality.

The term 性别 (xìngbié) is a foundational noun in the Chinese language, primarily used to denote 'gender' or 'sex'. At its core, it is composed of two characters: 性 (xìng), which refers to nature, character, or sex, and 别 (bié), which means to distinguish or differentiate. Together, they create a concept used to classify individuals based on biological or social characteristics. In modern Chinese society, this word is ubiquitous, appearing on almost every official document, from birth certificates and national ID cards to job applications and social media profiles. Understanding this word is essential for navigating daily life in a Chinese-speaking environment, as it is the standard way to ask for or provide information about one's male or female status.

Biological Classification: In medical and scientific contexts, 性别 refers strictly to biological sex, often categorized as 男 (nán - male) or 女 (nǚ - female). It is the primary data point collected during clinical trials or medical examinations.
Social and Legal Context: Legally, 性别 is a fixed attribute on a person's 身份证 (shēnfènzhèng - ID card). In social discussions, it also touches upon gender roles and expectations within the family and workplace.
Administrative Usage: When filling out forms, you will almost always see a box labeled 性别. It is usually followed by two options to check or a blank space to write either '男' or '女'.

While the word is simple, its implications are broad. In recent years, discussions around 性别平等 (xìngbié píngděng - gender equality) have become increasingly common in Chinese media and academic circles. This reflects a growing awareness of the social constructs surrounding gender beyond mere biological differences. However, in most everyday situations, the word remains a neutral, administrative term used for identification. For a learner at the A2 level, the most important takeaway is recognizing this word on forms and knowing how to respond correctly. It is not a word used for 'personality' (which would be 性格 xìnggé), a common mistake for beginners. Instead, think of it as the 'M/F' box on an English form.

请在这里填写您的姓名和性别。(Please fill in your name and gender here.)

这个职位的招聘没有性别限制。(There are no gender restrictions for this job recruitment.)

我们需要统计不同性别的人数。(We need to count the number of people of different genders.)

他的性别观念非常传统。(His views on gender are very traditional.)

医生正在确认胎儿的性别。(The doctor is confirming the gender of the fetus.)

Furthermore, the word 性别 is often paired with other nouns to create compound concepts. For instance, 性别歧视 (xìngbié qíshì) means gender discrimination, and 性别差异 (xìngbié chāyì) refers to gender differences. These are more advanced terms, but they show how 性别 acts as a root for broader sociological discussions. In summary, whether you are filling out a visa application, visiting a doctor, or discussing social issues, 性别 is the essential term for categorization by sex or gender.

Using 性别 (xìngbié) correctly involves understanding its role as a noun. It can function as the subject of a sentence, the object of a verb, or as an attributive modifying another noun. Because it represents a category, it is often used in descriptive or inquiry-based structures. Below are the primary ways to incorporate 性别 into your Chinese sentences effectively.

As a Direct Object: The most common usage is after verbs like 填写 (tiánxiě - to fill in), 确认 (quèrèn - to confirm), or 选择 (xuǎnzé - to choose). Example: '请在表格上填写您的性别。' (Please fill in your gender on the form.)
In Question Forms: To ask about gender in a formal or scientific way, you can use the structure '您的性别是...?' Although in casual conversation, one might just ask if someone is a boy or girl, 性别 is used when the context is professional. Example: '您的性别是什么？' (What is your gender?)
As an Attributive (Modifier): You can place 性别 before another noun to describe something related to gender. Example: '性别比例' (gender ratio) or '性别特征' (gender characteristics). This is very common in academic or news reporting.

One nuance to keep in mind is the difference between 性别 and 性 (xìng). While both can mean 'sex', 性别 is the standard noun for the category, whereas 性 is often used as a prefix or in more explicit biological/sexual contexts. For a learner, always stick to 性别 when referring to the administrative or social category of gender.

法律保障不同性别的人拥有平等的权利。(The law guarantees that people of different genders have equal rights.)

在这个实验中，性别是一个重要的变量。(In this experiment, gender is an important variable.)

你可以在设置里更改你的性别信息。(You can change your gender information in the settings.)

社会对男女性别性别有不同的期待。(Society has different expectations for the male and female genders.)

我们要打破性别偏见。(We need to break gender bias.)

When describing someone's gender, you don't say '他的性别是男的'. While understandable, it's more natural to say '他是男性' (He is male) or simply '他是男的' (He is a man/boy). Use 性别 when you are referring to the *concept* or the *category* itself. For example, '性别不应该成为成功的障碍' (Gender should not become a barrier to success). This sentence focuses on the abstract concept of gender as a factor in success.

The word 性别 (xìngbié) is most frequently encountered in structured environments. Unlike 'man' or 'woman' which are used in casual storytelling, 性别 is the language of data, administration, and formal inquiry. You will hear it in hospitals, government offices, schools, and during news broadcasts or sociological discussions.

At the Hospital: When a nurse is registering a new patient, they might ask, '请问病人的性别和年龄？' (May I ask the patient's gender and age?) It's also used in prenatal care when discussing the sex of a baby.
In the Workplace: Human Resources (HR) departments use this word in employee databases. You might hear discussions about '性别多元化' (gender diversity) in multinational companies operating in China.
On the News: News reports regarding the census (人口普查) frequently use 性别 to discuss demographic shifts, such as the '性别比' (sex ratio) of the population.

In the digital age, 性别 is a standard field in almost every app registration process. Whether you are signing up for WeChat, Alipay, or a gaming platform, you will encounter this word. Interestingly, in some modern apps, you might see more than two options, though '男' and '女' remain the standard. In academic settings, professors in sociology or psychology will use 性别 to discuss how identity is formed and how society treats individuals differently based on these categories.

人口普查数据显示，该地区的性别比例基本平衡。(Census data shows that the gender ratio in this region is basically balanced.)

在申请护照时，性别是一个必填项。(When applying for a passport, gender is a mandatory field.)

许多研究关注性别对薪资的影响。(Many studies focus on the impact of gender on salary.)

这个游戏的性别选择会影响角色的外观。(The gender selection in this game affects the character's appearance.)

老师在课堂上讨论了性别角色的演变。(The teacher discussed the evolution of gender roles in class.)

Lastly, in literature and film, 性别 might be used to discuss themes of identity or disguise (like in the story of Mulan). It is a versatile word that moves from the dry pages of a government form to the profound depths of human identity. By recognizing where it is used, you can better understand the level of formality and the nature of the information being discussed.

For English speakers learning Chinese, 性别 (xìngbié) can sometimes be tricky due to how it overlaps with or differs from related concepts like 'personality', 'sex', and 'man/woman'. Avoiding these common pitfalls will make your Chinese sound much more natural and precise.

Confusing Gender with Personality: This is the most frequent error. Beginners often confuse 性别 (xìngbié - gender) with 性格 (xìnggé - personality) because they share the first character. If you want to say someone has a good personality, use 性格. If you are talking about their biological sex, use 性别.
Using 'Man/Woman' Instead of 'Male/Female' on Forms: When a form asks for 性别, do not write 男人 (nánrén) or 女人 (nǚrén). These mean 'man' and 'woman' as social beings. The correct response is the single character 男 (nán) or 女 (nǚ), which are the category labels.
Overusing the Word in Casual Conversation: In English, we might say 'What's the gender of the baby?'. In Chinese, while '宝宝的性别是什么？' is correct, it sounds very formal. People are more likely to ask '是男孩还是女孩？' (Is it a boy or a girl?). Use 性别 when you want to sound professional or objective.

Another mistake involves the grammar of '性别'. It is a noun, not an adjective. You cannot say '他很性别' (He is very gender). If you want to describe someone as having strong masculine or feminine traits, you would use different terms like 有男人味 (yǒu nánrén wèi) or 女性化 (nǚxìnghuà). 性别 is strictly for categorization.

错误：他的性别很好。 (Wrong: His gender is very good - meaning personality.)

正确：他的性格很好。 (Correct: His personality is very good.)

错误：表单上的性别填“男人”。 (Wrong: Filling 'man' for gender on a form.)

正确：表单上的性别填“男”。 (Correct: Filling 'male' for gender on a form.)

注意：不要把“性别”和“性”混淆。 (Note: Don't confuse 'gender' with 'sex/sexual'.)

Finally, remember that 性别 is a neutral term. It does not carry any inherent judgment. However, because it is so often used in administrative and legal contexts, using it in the wrong place can make you sound detached or overly formal. For example, asking a friend '你的性别是什么？' instead of '你是男生还是女生？' might result in a confused look, as if you are conducting an official survey on them.

To truly master 性别 (xìngbié), it's helpful to compare it with other words that occupy similar semantic space. Chinese has several ways to refer to male and female identities, and choosing the right one depends on the context and the level of formality.

性别 vs. 性 (xìng): 性别 is the full noun for 'gender'. 性 is a more general root meaning 'sex', 'nature', or 'suffix for -ness'. You see 性 in words like 男性 (nánxìng - male sex) or 女性 (nǚxìng - female sex). Use 性别 for the category, and 男性/女性 for the individuals.
性别 vs. 男女 (nánnǚ): 男女 literally means 'male and female'. It is used in compound words like 男女平等 (equality between men and women). While 性别平等 is also correct and more formal, 男女 is very common in idiomatic and everyday speech.
性别 vs. 性格 (xìnggé): As mentioned before, 性格 refers to personality or character traits. There is no biological component to 性格, whereas 性别 is rooted in biological or legal classification.

In more advanced or specialized contexts, you might encounter 社会性别 (shèhuì xìngbié), which is the specific term for 'social gender' as opposed to biological sex. This is used in gender studies to differentiate between the two concepts. For most learners, however, 性别 covers both.

在填写问卷时，请选择您的性别：男、女、或其他。(When filling out the questionnaire, please select your gender: male, female, or other.)

虽然他们的性别不同，但他们的兴趣爱好很相似。(Although their genders are different, their interests and hobbies are very similar.)

这个研究探讨了性别认同的复杂性。(This study explores the complexity of gender identity.)

性别分工在农业社会非常明显。(Gender division of labor was very obvious in agricultural societies.)

无论性别如何，每个人都应该受到尊重。(Regardless of gender, everyone should be respected.)

Understanding these distinctions helps you navigate different social layers in China. Using 性别 correctly shows that you understand the formal structures of the language, while knowing when to use 男女 or 性格 shows a deeper grasp of everyday communication and common points of confusion.

How Formal Is It?

Fun Fact

The character '性' is also used in the Chinese translation of 'The Heart Sutra', where it refers to the 'nature' of all things, showing its deep philosophical roots before it became a standard term for 'sex'.

Pronunciation Guide

UK /ʃɪŋ biɛ/

US /ʃɪŋ biɛ/

The emphasis is usually slightly more on the first syllable 'xìng'.

Rhymes With

姓 (xìng) 兴 (xìng) 性 (xìng) 别 (bié) 节 (jié) 洁 (jié) 结 (jié) 解 (jiě)

Common Errors

Pronouncing 'x' as 'ex' instead of a soft 'sh' sound.
Confusing the tones: saying both as flat tones.
Mixing up 'xìng' with 'xìng' (personality) in speech without clear context.
Saying 'bié' like 'bee' instead of 'bee-eh'.
Forgetting the rising tone on 'bié', making it sound like 'don't' (bié).

Difficulty Rating

Reading 2/5

Easy to recognize on forms; characters are common.

Writing 3/5

Character '性' and '别' require some practice for stroke order.

Speaking 2/5

Pronunciation is straightforward but tones must be clear.

Listening 2/5

Common in administrative contexts, usually easy to catch.

What to Learn Next

Prerequisites

男 (Male) 女 (Female) 人 (Person) 这 (This) 是 (Is)

Learn Next

性格 (Personality) 平等 (Equality) 歧视 (Discrimination) 比例 (Ratio) 社会 (Society)

Advanced

刻板印象 (Stereotype) 二元论 (Dualism) 建构主义 (Constructivism) 边缘化 (Marginalization) 包容性 (Inclusivity)

Grammar to Know

Measure words with '性别'

We use '一种' (one type of) to count '性别' if necessary, but it is usually treated as an abstract noun.

Using '性别' as a modifier

Place '性别' before another noun without '的' for standard terms like '性别平等' or '性别歧视'.

Asking questions with '性别'

Use '...的性别是什么？' for a formal inquiry.

Linking with '和'

'性别和年龄' is a common pair in data collection.

Using '男/女' as responses

When the noun '性别' is the subject of an inquiry, the response is often a single character adjective/noun.

Examples by Level

性别：男。

Gender: Male.

A1 students should recognize this on forms.

性别：女。

Gender: Female.

A1 students should recognize this on forms.

请填写性别。

Please fill in your gender.

Using '请' for a polite request.

你的性别是什么？

What is your gender?

Basic '是什么' question structure.

这里写性别。

Write gender here.

Simple 'Subject + Verb + Object' structure.

我不明白‘性别’。

I don't understand 'gender'.

Negation with '不'.

性别很重要。

Gender is very important.

Using '很' to link a noun and an adjective.

名字，年龄，性别。

Name, age, gender.

A common list of personal info categories.

请在这张表上选择您的性别。

Please select your gender on this form.

Use of '选择' (to select).

他的性别是男。

His gender is male.

Simple identification sentence.

这个工作对性别没有要求。

This job has no gender requirements.

'对...没有要求' means 'to have no requirements for...'

我们要统计男女性别的人数。

We need to count the number of males and females.

Using '男女性别' to mean 'both genders'.

医生问我宝宝的性别。

The doctor asked me the baby's gender.

Indirect speech with '问'.

每个人的性别都写在身份证上。

Everyone's gender is written on their ID card.

Use of '都' to mean 'all/everyone'.

性别和性格是不一样的。

Gender and personality are different.

'A和B是不一样的' is a common comparison pattern.

你可以在这里修改你的性别信息。

You can modify your gender information here.

Using '可以' for permission/possibility.

性别平等是现代社会的重要目标。

Gender equality is an important goal of modern society.

Abstract noun phrase '性别平等'.

我们不应该因为性别而歧视他人。

We should not discriminate against others because of their gender.

The '因为...而...' structure shows cause and effect.

由于性别差异，两人的想法可能不同。

Due to gender differences, the two people's ideas might be different.

Using '由于' (due to) for formal explanation.

在这个调查中，性别是一个关键变量。

In this survey, gender is a key variable.

Scientific term '关键变量' (key variable).

这家公司非常注重性别比例的平衡。

This company pays great attention to the balance of the gender ratio.

Using '注重' (to pay attention to) with a noun phrase.

社会对不同性别有不同的期待。

Society has different expectations for different genders.

Using '对...有期待' (to have expectations for...).

性别不应该限制一个人的职业选择。

Gender should not limit a person's career choices.

Using '限制' (to limit) as a verb.

他在论文中讨论了性别认同的问题。

He discussed the issue of gender identity in his thesis.

'性别认同' is a specific B1+ term.

我们要努力消除职场中的性别偏见。

We must strive to eliminate gender bias in the workplace.

Using '消除' (to eliminate) with abstract nouns.

性别角色的演变反映了文化的变迁。

The evolution of gender roles reflects cultural changes.

The verb '反映' (to reflect) linking two abstract concepts.

许多国家都在推动性别主流化政策。

Many countries are promoting gender mainstreaming policies.

'推动' (to promote/push forward) in a political context.

性别暴力是一个全球性的严重问题。

Gender-based violence is a serious global issue.

'全球性的' (global) as an adjective.

该研究分析了性别对消费习惯的影响。

The study analyzed the influence of gender on consumption habits.

'分析...对...的影响' is a standard academic structure.

性别配额制度在某些领域引起了争议。

Gender quota systems have caused controversy in certain fields.

'引起争议' (to cause controversy) is a high-level phrase.

我们需要重新审视传统的性别观念。

We need to re-examine traditional gender concepts.

'重新审视' (to re-examine) shows critical thinking.

性别多元化有助于提高团队的创造力。

Gender diversity helps to improve a team's creativity.

'有助于' (to be helpful for) is more formal than '对...有帮助'.

性别解构是当代女性主义理论的核心。

Gender deconstruction is at the core of contemporary feminist theory.

Highly academic terminology: '解构' and '核心'.

法律应保障公民不因性别认同而受歧视。

The law should guarantee that citizens are not discriminated against based on their gender identity.

Formal legal language using '应' (should) and '不因...而...'.

这种性别刻板印象在广告中依然普遍存在。

This kind of gender stereotype still exists widely in advertising.

'普遍存在' (to exist widely) is a formal phrase.

文章探讨了性别与阶级在历史中的交织。

The article explores the intersection of gender and class in history.

'交织' (to intertwine) used metaphorically.

性别中立的语言在官方文件中越来越常见。

Gender-neutral language is becoming more common in official documents.

'性别中立' (gender neutral) as a compound adjective.

我们需要打破性别本质主义的束缚。

We need to break the shackles of gender essentialism.

'束缚' (shackles/constraints) used for social norms.

政府通过立法来缩小性别薪酬差距。

The government is narrowing the gender pay gap through legislation.

'缩小...差距' (to narrow the gap) is a common policy term.

性别敏感度培训在大型企业中逐渐普及。

Gender sensitivity training is gradually becoming popular in large enterprises.

'逐渐普及' (gradually becoming popular/widespread).

性别话语的建构反映了深层的权力结构。

The construction of gender discourse reflects deep power structures.

Advanced sociological terms: '话语' (discourse) and '建构' (construction).

必须警惕将性别差异过度生物学化的倾向。

We must be wary of the tendency to over-biologize gender differences.

'警惕' (be wary of) and '倾向' (tendency) are high-level formal words.

性别政治在全球化背景下呈现出新的复杂性。

Gender politics presents new complexities in the context of globalization.

'呈现出' (to present/manifest) used with abstract qualities.

该著作对传统性别的二元对立进行了批判。

This work critiques the binary opposition of traditional gender.

'二元对立' (binary opposition) and '批判' (critique).

性别正义是衡量一个社会文明程度的重要指标。

Gender justice is an important indicator for measuring the degree of civilization of a society.

'衡量' (to measure) and '指标' (indicator).

通过跨文化视角，我们可以更深刻地理解性别。

Through a cross-cultural perspective, we can understand gender more profoundly.

'跨文化视角' (cross-cultural perspective) and '深刻' (profound).

性别表现的多元化挑战了传统的社会规范。

The diversification of gender expression challenges traditional social norms.

'表现' (expression/performance) and '挑战' (challenge).

法律框架应适应不断变化的性别认同景观。

The legal framework should adapt to the ever-changing landscape of gender identity.

'适应' (to adapt) and '景观' (landscape - used metaphorically).

Common Collocations

性别平等

性别歧视

性别比例

性别认同

性别差异

性别角色

性别偏见

选择性别

确认性别

跨性别

Common Phrases

性别歧视

— Gender discrimination. It refers to treating someone unfairly because of their gender.

性别歧视在职场中是不被允许的。

性别平等

— Gender equality. The state in which access to rights or opportunities is unaffected by gender.

我们应该共同努力实现性别平等。

性别比

— Sex ratio. The ratio of males to females in a population.

我国的出生人口性别比正在趋于正常。

性别分工

— Gender division of labor. The delegation of different tasks between males and females.

传统的性别分工正在被打破。

性别角色

— Gender roles. The social and behavioral norms considered appropriate for a gender.

社会对性别角色的期待正在改变。

性别偏移

— Gender bias. A preference or prejudice toward one gender.

算法中可能存在性别偏移。

性别特征

— Gender characteristics. Physical or social traits that distinguish genders.

男女在生理上的性别特征很明显。

性别敏感

— Gender sensitive. Being aware of and responding to the differences between genders.

我们需要制定更具性别敏感的政策。

性别多元

— Gender diversity. The presence of a wide range of gender identities.

性别多元化对公司文化有益。

性别标识

— Gender marker. A symbol or word used to indicate gender.

护照上的性别标识通常是M或F。

Often Confused With

性别 vs 性格 (xìnggé)

Means personality. People often mix them up because they share '性'.

性别 vs 性质 (xìngzhì)

Means nature or quality of a thing, not people's gender.

性别 vs 性 (xìng)

Can mean sex, but is more general and often used as a suffix for '-ness'.

Idioms & Expressions

"重男轻女"

— To value males and belittle females. A traditional mindset favoring boys over girls.

现代社会不再提倡重男轻女的思想。

Common/Cultural

"男女平等"

— Equality between men and women. The most common way to express gender equality.

我们要落实男女平等的国策。

Formal/Neutral

"巾帼不让须眉"

— Women are not inferior to men. Used to praise talented or brave women.

她在赛场上的表现真是巾帼不让须眉。

Literary/Praise

"阴阳平衡"

— Balance between Yin and Yang. Sometimes used metaphorically for gender balance.

这个团队需要达到阴阳平衡。

Philosophical/Informal

"男耕女织"

— Men plow and women weave. Refers to the traditional division of labor.

古代社会的理想模式是男耕女织。

Historical/Literary

"男女有别"

— There is a distinction between men and women. Refers to traditional norms of segregation.

古人认为男女有别，不应随意接触。

Traditional/Formal

"红颜薄命"

— Beautiful women often have tragic lives. A traditional saying about women's fate.

小说中的女主角往往感叹红颜薄命。

Literary/Tragic

"男大当婚，女大当嫁"

— When a man/woman grows up, they should marry. Traditional view on gender life paths.

虽然现代人晚婚，但老人还说男大当婚，女大当嫁。

Colloquial/Traditional

"龙凤呈祥"

— The dragon and phoenix bring prosperity. Often representing a perfect male-female union.

婚礼上到处都是龙凤呈祥的图案。

Ceremonial/Auspicious

"女中豪杰"

— A heroine among women. Used to describe an outstanding woman.

她白手起家，真是个女中豪杰。

Praise

Easily Confused

性别 vs 性格

They share the character '性'.

性别 is biological/social gender; 性格 is individual personality and behavior.

他的性别是男，但他的性格很温柔。

性别 vs 姓

Sounds exactly like the first character '性'.

姓 (xìng) is a surname; 性 (xìng) is part of gender.

他姓王，他的性别是男。

性别 vs 别

The second character can also mean 'don't'.

In 性别, it means 'distinguish'; on its own, it often means 'don't' or 'other'.

性别不同，但别歧视。

性别 vs 男性/女性

Both refer to gender categories.

性别 is the name of the *category*; 男性/女性 refers to the *members* of that category.

在性别一栏，他选择了男性。

性别 vs 男女

Both relate to male/female.

男女 is more colloquial and refers to the people; 性别 is the abstract concept.

男女老少都来了。

Sentence Patterns

性别是[男/女]。

性别是男。

请填写[性别]。

请填写性别。

[性别]平等很重要。

性别平等很重要。

因为[性别]而[歧视]。

因为性别而歧视是不对的。

[性别]比例很[平衡/不平衡]。

这里的性别比例很平衡。

[性别]刻板印象依然[存在]。

性别刻板印象依然广泛存在。

探讨[性别]与[社会]的关系。

我们要探讨性别与社会的关系。

[性别]话语的建构。

我们要分析性别话语的建构过程。

Word Family

Nouns

男性 (nánxìng - male)

女性 (nǚxìng - female)

中性 (zhōngxìng - neutral)

双性 (shuāngxìng - bisexual/intersex)

异性 (yìxìng - opposite sex)

Adjectives

性别化的 (xìngbiéhuà de - gendered)

无性别的 (wú xìngbié de - genderless)

性格 (xìnggé - personality)

性质 (xìngzhì - nature/quality)

区分 (qūfēn - distinguish)

类别 (lèibié - category)

男女 (nánnǚ - male and female)

How to Use It

frequency

Very common in official and academic contexts.

Common Mistakes

Using '性别' for 'personality'. → 性格 (xìnggé)
This is a very common error due to the shared '性' character.
Writing '男人' in a '性别' box. → 男 (nán)
Forms require the category label '男' or '女', not the social term '男人' or '女人'.
Saying '他的性别很男' (His gender is very male). → 他是男性 (He is male).
性别 is a noun and cannot be modified by '很' as if it were an adjective.
Confusing '性别' with '性' (sex). → 性别 (gender/sex as a category)
While related, '性别' is the specific word for the category of gender.
Pronouncing 'xìng' as 'shing' with no tone. → xìng (falling tone)
Tones are crucial for distinguishing '性' from other similar-sounding characters.

Tips

Form Recognition

Always look for '性别' near '姓名' (name) and '年龄' (age) on any Chinese form. It's almost always there.

Tone Accuracy

Make sure 'xìng' is a sharp falling tone. If you say it with a flat tone, it might be harder to understand.

Noun Only

Remember that '性别' is a noun. Use it like 'category' or 'label', not as a descriptive adjective.

Equality Phrases

Learn '男女平等' as a set phrase. It's one of the most famous slogans in modern China.

Radical Clues

The heart radical in '性' reminds you it's about the 'nature' of a person.

Avoid Confusion

Write '性别' and '性格' side by side ten times to train your brain to see the difference.

Address Groups

When addressing a mixed-gender group formally, you don't use '性别', you use '女士们、先生们' (Ladies and Gentlemen).

App Settings

Switch your phone language to Chinese and find the '性别' setting in your profile to see it in action.

HSK Prep

Expect '性别' to appear in listening sections involving interviews or filling out forms.

Knife Distinction

Remember '别' has a knife (刂). Use the knife to separate the two genders.

Memorize It

Mnemonic

Think of '性' as your inner nature (heart + birth) and '别' as a knife cutting a line to separate two groups. You are separating people by their birth-nature: Gender.

Visual Association

Imagine a public restroom door with the male and female symbols. On top of the door, there is a sign that says '性别'.

Word Web

男 (Male) 女 (Female) 平等 (Equality) 歧视 (Discrimination) 角色 (Role) 认同 (Identity) 差异 (Difference) 统计 (Statistics)

Challenge

Try to find the word '性别' on three different Chinese websites today. Look at the options they provide for that field.

Word Origin

The word '性别' combines two ancient characters. '性' (xìng) dates back to early inscriptions, composed of the heart radical (忄) and the character for birth/life (生), originally meaning one's innate nature. '别' (bié) consists of a knife radical (刂), suggesting separation or distinction.

Original meaning: The original combined meaning was the 'distinction of nature' or 'differentiation of births', which evolved into the modern concept of biological and social gender.

Sino-Tibetan, Sinitic.

Cultural Context

When discussing '性别', be aware that while the binary (男/女) is standard, sensitivity toward non-binary and transgender identities is growing in some Chinese communities, though it may not be reflected in official forms.

In English-speaking countries, the distinction between 'sex' and 'gender' is often emphasized in academic and social contexts. In Chinese, '性别' is frequently used for both, though '社会性别' is the specific academic term for gender.

Mulan (the story of a girl disguising her 性别 to join the army). The movie 'Farewell My Concubine' (exploring 性别 identity in Peking Opera). Li Yuchun (a famous singer known for her gender-neutral/androgynous style).

Practice in Real Life

Real-World Contexts

Filling out an application

填写性别 (Fill in gender)
性别一栏 (Gender column)
必填项 (Required field)
男/女 (Male/Female)

Medical examination

确认性别 (Confirm gender)
生理性别 (Biological sex)
检查项目 (Examination items)
病人性别 (Patient gender)

Sociological discussion

性别平等 (Gender equality)
性别角色 (Gender roles)
社会性别 (Social gender)
性别偏见 (Gender bias)

Job hunting

性别歧视 (Gender discrimination)
性别要求 (Gender requirements)
招聘信息 (Recruitment info)
性别限制 (Gender restrictions)

Data analysis

性别比 (Sex ratio)
性别分布 (Gender distribution)
样本性别 (Sample gender)
性别差异 (Gender difference)

Conversation Starters

"你认为在你的国家，性别平等实现了吗？ (Do you think gender equality has been achieved in your country?)"

"在工作中，你遇到过性别歧视吗？ (Have you ever encountered gender discrimination at work?)"

"你觉得性别会影响一个人的职业选择吗？ (Do you think gender affects a person's career choice?)"

"社会对不同性别有什么样的刻板印象？ (What kind of stereotypes does society have for different genders?)"

"你如何看待现代社会中性别角色的变化？ (How do you view the changes in gender roles in modern society?)"

Journal Prompts

写一写你对性别平等的看法，以及为什么它很重要。 (Write about your views on gender equality and why it is important.)

描述一次你因为性别而受到不同对待的经历。 (Describe an experience where you were treated differently because of your gender.)

谈谈你认为教育如何能帮助消除性别偏见。 (Talk about how you think education can help eliminate gender bias.)

在你的文化中，传统的性别角色是什么样的？现在有变化吗？ (What were the traditional gender roles in your culture? Have they changed now?)

如果你可以改变社会对性别的某种看法，你会改变什么？ (If you could change a certain societal view on gender, what would you change?)

Frequently Asked Questions

10 questions

Yes, '性别' is used for animals in scientific and veterinary contexts. For example, '这只猫的性别是什么？' (What is this cat's gender?).

In formal contexts like forms or medical visits, it is necessary. In casual social settings, it's better to ask '你是男生还是女生？' or simply observe.

'性别' is the noun for the category. '性' is a broader character meaning nature, sex, or a suffix like '-ness'. You wouldn't say '我的性是男'.

Most official forms in China still only offer '男' and '女'. However, some international or progressive apps may include '其他' (other) or '保密' (keep secret).

You can say either '性别平等' (xìngbié píngděng) or '男女平等' (nánnǚ píngděng). Both are very common.

No, '性别' only refers to gender. Sexual orientation is '性取向' (xìng qǔxiàng).

Yes, it is a formal noun. You see it on documents and hear it in news reports.

No, it is a noun. You cannot say '他很性别'. You must use it as '他的性别' or in compounds like '性别差异'.

In this context, '别' means 'to distinguish' or 'difference'. So '性别' literally means 'the distinction of nature/sex'.

Yes, it is a standard vocabulary item in HSK 3 and 4 (A2/B1 levels).