Translation guide
Describes something that lacks gender, is not associated with a specific gender, or is designed to be used by any gender. In Japanese, this concept is often expressed through loanwords, descriptive phrases, or by referring to unisex or gender-neutral items.
Describing items, fashion, or facilities that are not restricted to one gender and can be used by anyone.
A direct loanword from English, commonly used in fashion and marketing to describe gender-neutral styles or products.
このブランドはジェンダーレスな服をたくさん出している。
This brand releases a lot of genderless clothing.
Another common loanword meaning 'unisex', used for clothing, accessories, and facilities like restrooms. Slightly more established than ジェンダーレス in some contexts.
ユニセックスのトイレはあちらです。
The unisex restroom is over there.
A descriptive phrase meaning 'regardless of gender'. Used for items or services that anyone can use.
この制服は性別を問わず着られます。
This uniform can be worn regardless of gender.
Literally 'for both men and women'. Often seen on product labels or signs, but can sound a bit formal or old-fashioned.
男女兼用の腕時計を探しています。
I'm looking for a unisex wristwatch.
Referring to a state of having no gender, such as in discussions of gender identity, biology, or abstract concepts.
A straightforward way to say 'has no gender'. Can be used for living things, concepts, or fictional characters.
そのキャラクターは性別がない設定です。
That character is designed to be genderless.
A technical or literary term meaning 'genderless' or 'asexual' (in the biological sense). Rare in everyday conversation.
無性生殖をする生物もいる。
Some organisms reproduce asexually (without gender).
Means 'there is no distinction of sex/gender'. Used in academic or formal contexts.
この社会では性の区別がない。
In this society, there is no gender distinction.
Referring to words or expressions that do not specify gender, such as pronouns or titles.
Japanese often omits subjects and pronouns when they are clear from context. Instead of using a gendered pronoun, simply drop it.
あの人は学生だ。
That person is a student. (No pronoun needed)
A gender-neutral way to say 'that person'. Can be used when you need to refer to someone without specifying gender.
あの人に聞いてみたら？
Why don't you ask them?
A polite, gender-neutral way to say 'that person'. Suitable for formal situations.
Instead of a pronoun, use the person's name with an appropriate suffix (さん, くん, etc.) or their title (先生, 部長). This is natural and gender-neutral.
田中さんはどこですか。
Where is Tanaka?
Both are loanwords meaning 'genderless' or 'unisex'. ジェンダーレス is more modern and often used in fashion and social contexts, while ユニセックス is more established for products and facilities. In many cases they are interchangeable, but ユニセックス may sound slightly more traditional.
ジェンダーレスファッションが流行っている。
Genderless fashion is trending.
ユニセックスの香水を買った。
I bought a unisex perfume.
Directly translating 'genderless' as 性別なし or 性なし can sound unnatural or overly technical. Use ジェンダーレス or descriptive phrases instead, unless you are in a biological or academic context.
この服はジェンダーレスです。
These clothes are genderless.
May I ask that person's name?