Neopronouns are pronoun sets other than familiar forms such as she/her, he/him and they/them. Examples in English include xe/xem, ze/hir, ey/em and ve/ver. Some sets are relatively recent; others have existed for decades.
What are neopronouns?
Neopronouns are pronouns used by some people in place of, or alongside, more familiar English pronouns such as she/her, he/him and they/them.
Examples include xe/xem, ze/hir, ey/em and ve/ver. Different people use different sets, and some people use more than one pronoun set.
The word “neo” can make the idea sound entirely new, but not every neopronoun was recently created. Alternative pronoun systems have appeared at different points in English-language history.
Examples of neopronoun sets
A pronoun set usually includes several grammatical forms. The exact form depends on the set and the person using it, so examples are best treated as patterns rather than universal rules.
| Set | Example |
|---|---|
| xe / xem | Xe brought xem a notebook. |
| ze / hir | Ze said the bag was hirs. |
| ey / em | Ey said I could call em later. |
| ve / ver | Ve brought ver own notes. |
Because sets can vary, the most accurate approach is to use the forms a person gives you rather than trying to derive them from memory.
Who uses neopronouns?
Some nonbinary, gender-nonconforming or gender-diverse people use neopronouns because familiar pronouns do not feel like the best fit. Other people with those identities use they/them, she/her, he/him or a combination.
There is no rule that says a particular gender identity requires a particular pronoun set. Pronouns are one part of how someone may describe or express themselves, but they do not tell you everything about that person’s gender.
How do you ask someone’s pronouns?
A simple question is usually enough: “What pronouns do you use?” You can also introduce your own pronouns first if that makes the conversation feel more natural.
Do not assume that appearance tells you which pronouns someone uses.
How to get used to an unfamiliar pronoun set
New grammar can feel awkward at first simply because it is unfamiliar. Repetition helps. Try writing a few ordinary sentences using the person’s name and pronoun set until the pattern becomes easier.
A practical approach:
- Write down the pronoun set if you are likely to forget it.
- Practice privately instead of making the person repeatedly teach you.
- Use the person’s name when you need a moment to remember the right form.
- If you make a mistake, correct it briefly and continue.
- Avoid turning the correction into a long apology that shifts attention back to you.
Are they/them pronouns neopronouns?
Definitions vary in casual conversation, but many glossaries distinguish singular they/them from neopronouns. Planned Parenthood, for example, defines neopronouns as a category of pronouns other than she, he and they.
Why pronouns matter
Using the name and pronouns someone asks you to use is a straightforward form of interpersonal respect. It does not require you to know every identity label or every pronoun set in advance.
For broader context on how stigma and social experiences can affect LGBTQ+ wellbeing, see our guide to the minority stress model.
Frequently asked questions
What are neopronouns?
Neopronouns are pronoun sets other than familiar options such as she/her, he/him and they/them.
What are examples of neopronouns?
Common English examples include xe/xem, ze/hir, ey/em and ve/ver, although many other sets exist.
Are neopronouns only for nonbinary people?
No single gender identity requires a particular pronoun set. People choose pronouns that fit them, and different nonbinary people may use very different pronouns.
Is singular they a neopronoun?
Definitions vary, but many glossaries treat they/them separately and use neopronouns for sets beyond she, he and they.
What should I do if I use the wrong pronoun?
Correct yourself briefly, use the right pronoun and continue rather than making the mistake the focus of the conversation.
