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While I want nothing more than to scream from the rooftops, “YES,” this is a complex question, and the answer may not be the same for everyone. Let’s start by taking a look at a few key definitions: 1) sex, 2) gender, and 3) transgender.

Sex involves biological differences such as genitalia, hormones, and chromosomes and includes male, female and intersex. Gender, on the other hand, relates to the social constructs assigned to the sexes, such as gender roles, behaviors, gender expression, and the experience of gender. Someone who identifies as transgender, simply means the experience of gender and/or personal identity doesn’t align with their sex assigned at birth.

So, as we look at the pragmatics of the definitions, yes you can identify as trans without transitioning. Acknowledging that your gender identity is trans does not require anything other than recognizing gender identity from within.

What makes this question complex is there are various meanings for transitioning, and those meanings vary person-to-person.

2. Physical Transitioning

While some people may prefer to only socially transition, others want to change their expressions and their sex. This would include going on hormones and having surgery to change their physical appearance. Having said that, it is possible to go on hormones without having any surgery, and that is ok! Every person’s journey and experience will be unique to them.

What if you don’t want to make any changes? That is completely up to you, and your trans identity is just as valid as individuals who choose to transition. This may sound confusing for some people as it is fairly typical for trans individuals to want to transition in some way, but typical doesn’t mean it’s a requirement.