Transfeminine vs. Transgender

Attribute	Transfeminine	Transgender
Definition	Identifying as more feminine than assigned gender at birth	Identifying as a gender different from assigned gender at birth
Gender Expression	May involve expressing femininity through clothing, behavior, etc.	Can vary widely and may not necessarily involve femininity
Identity	Specifically related to femininity	Can encompass a wide range of gender identities
Community	Part of the transgender community, with a focus on femininity	Part of the transgender community, with diverse identities

Definition

Transfeminine is a term used to describe individuals who were assigned male at birth but identify and express themselves in a more feminine way. This can include individuals who identify as women, non-binary, genderqueer, or any other gender identity that is more aligned with femininity. On the other hand, transgender is an umbrella term that encompasses individuals whose gender identity does not align with the sex they were assigned at birth. This can include individuals who identify as the opposite gender, non-binary, genderqueer, or any other gender identity.

Gender Identity

Transfeminine individuals specifically identify with femininity, whether that be as a woman, non-binary person, or another gender identity that is more aligned with femininity. They may express themselves through clothing, mannerisms, and other aspects of gender presentation that are traditionally associated with femininity. Transgender individuals, on the other hand, may have a gender identity that is different from the sex they were assigned at birth, but this identity may not necessarily be aligned with femininity. Transgender individuals can have a wide range of gender identities beyond just being feminine.

Medical Transition

Some transfeminine individuals may choose to undergo medical transition, which can include hormone replacement therapy (HRT) to develop more feminine secondary sex characteristics, such as breast growth and a more feminine fat distribution. Some transfeminine individuals may also choose to undergo gender-affirming surgeries, such as breast augmentation or facial feminization surgery. Transgender individuals may also undergo medical transition, but the specific treatments they pursue will depend on their individual gender identity. Some transgender individuals may choose to undergo hormone therapy or surgeries to align their physical body with their gender identity.

Social Transition

Transfeminine individuals may socially transition by changing their name, pronouns, and gender presentation to align with their gender identity. This can involve coming out to friends, family, and colleagues as transfeminine and asking them to use the correct name and pronouns. Transgender individuals may also socially transition in a similar way, but the specific changes they make will depend on their individual gender identity. Some transgender individuals may choose to present as the opposite gender, while others may present in a more gender-neutral way.

Community and Support

Transfeminine individuals may find support and community within transgender and LGBTQ+ spaces that specifically cater to individuals who identify with femininity. These spaces can provide a sense of belonging and understanding for transfeminine individuals as they navigate their gender identity. Transgender individuals may also find support within these spaces, but the community may be more diverse in terms of gender identities and experiences. Transgender individuals may find support from others who have different gender identities and experiences than their own.

Legal and Social Challenges

Both transfeminine and transgender individuals may face legal and social challenges related to their gender identity. This can include discrimination in employment, housing, healthcare, and other areas of life. Transfeminine individuals may face specific challenges related to their gender expression and presentation, such as being misgendered or facing harassment for not conforming to traditional gender norms. Transgender individuals may face similar challenges, but the specific nature of the discrimination may vary based on their individual gender identity.