In this article, the author reflects on the term 'gender', expressing uncertainty about its precise definition compared to terms like 'sex'. The term is often translated as 'social gender', but the author admits to confusion regarding its meaning. The historical roots of 'gender' are not particularly inclusive; originally coined by sexologist John Money, it was used in the context of assigning a gender identity to intersex children, often forcing them into strict binaries of male and female based on societal norms. This initial understanding served as a rigid standard against which individuals were judged and categorized.

Feminists have since transformed the normative connotations associated with the term. They have reinterpreted 'gender' as a variable practice that changes with cultural and historical contexts, moving away from a rigid framework towards recognizing diverse human identities. This shift redefines 'gender' from a standard of normalcy to an expansive concept that opens up the possibilities of human existence, accommodating variations rather than imposing limitations.

The article also touches on the challenges of translating such concepts into Korean. The lack of a native term for 'gender' means that the foreign word is retained, prompting the author to appreciate the humility of translation and the recognition that language can be inadequate in fully capturing the existence of others. The writer concludes by emphasizing that language should not constrain individuals into categories of 'normalcy' but should allow for the expression and acknowledgement of diverse identities, reinforcing the importance of inclusivity in discussions of gender.