性別

• Reading: せいべつ
• Romaji: seibetsu
• Kanji breakdown: 性 (sei) — nature, sex, gender; 別 (betsu) — distinction, separate
• Pronunciation: /seː.be.t͡sɯ/

Meaning

Sex; gender. The distinction between male and female.

A noun used in formal, administrative, and academic contexts to refer to the biological or social categorisation of sex or gender. Commonly encountered on application forms, surveys, and official documents. In recent years, discussions about 性別 have expanded to include gender identity and diversity.

Examples

1. 履歴書に性別を記入する欄がある。 There is a field to enter your sex on the resume.
2. 性別に関係なく平等に扱われるべきだ。 People should be treated equally regardless of gender.
3. アンケートで性別を選択してください。 Please select your gender on the survey.

Usage Guide

Context: official forms, surveys, social issues

Tone: neutral

Origin & History

From Sino-Japanese 性別. 性 (sei) means nature, sex, or gender, and 別 (betsu) means distinction or separation. Together they mean the differentiation by sex or gender.

Cultural Context

Era: Modern

Generation: All ages

Social background: Universal