Bisexual vs. pansexual—what's the difference?

Bisexuality and pansexuality are two similar but very distinct sexual identities. Both labels describe someone who’s attracted to more than one gender, which is why people often confuse the two, or use them interchangeably.

While bi and pan people do share some of the same experiences, it’s important to remember that the two identities exist separately, and come with their own set of nuances and challenges. While some folks find labels complicated or restrictive, others find that they bring clarity and meaning—and these labels can change over time.

Perhaps you’re exploring whether yourself, a partner, or a friend might identify as bi or pan. To help unpack this, we’ll explain the meanings behind each term, the similarities and differences that make them related but unique—and share what Feeld members told us about how they experience these identities.

What does it mean to be bisexual?

Bisexuality means that you experience attraction to more than one gender. It’s also understood as being attracted to your own gender, plus another gender.

While pansexual people describe their sexuality as being unrelated to gender, for bisexual folks, a person’s gender can be a significant element in their attraction to them. 

"I identify as bisexual because the gender or sex of a person matters to me,” says Feeld member Silvia, 25. “My attraction changes depending on it, and falling in love or having sex feels different depending on their gender or sex."

While some people still interpret bisexuality as implying attraction to two "traditional" binary genders (men and women), the term has evolved to be more inclusive of non-binary and genderqueer identities. Vera, 28, says: "I think bisexual identities can range from a pretty binary point of view to a much more fluid one, depending on the person and how they define it for themselves."

What does it mean to be pansexual?

Pansexuality is described as an attraction to people regardless of gender (the term "pan" comes from the Greek word for "all"). Kat, 38, puts it simply: "Pansexual means I'm attracted to the person, not their parts."

The term pansexual has been used, in its current definition, since at least the late 1960s. But over the years, it has become more recognized as a way to emphasize attraction that transcends traditional gender roles. To quote the pansexual character David Rose from Schitt's Creek: "I like the wine and not the label." 

"My attraction has always felt more specific than any real binary of man or woman,” echoes Cal, 23. “Almost everyone has something attractive about them, regardless of how they do or do not identify."

What’s the difference between bisexual and pansexual?

While bisexuality and pansexuality both involve attraction to multiple genders, the distinction largely comes into play when considering how important somebody’s gender is in your attraction to them. 

For bisexual people, gender can be a factor in their attraction to men, women, or gender-expansive folks. Meanwhile, pansexual people experience attraction to all genders regardless of individual gender identity—and it’s less of a factor for them.

However, some people feel that the terms have come to overlap as they’ve evolved. “Traditionally” or historically, bisexuality may have referred to somebody only attracted to men and women—but the term has since expanded to include other genders too. 

Tadhg, 25, who identifies as pansexual, shares their perspective: "I feel like the modern definition of bisexual means about the same thing as pansexual. I'd say the main difference is the person who uses it may feel more attached to one label or the other or feel like it represents them better."

Echoing this sentiment, Jasmine, 31, shared her journey of navigating both bisexual and pansexual identities. "I've gone back and forth on how I define my sexuality," she says. "Ultimately, I know there's the possibility that I could be attracted to anyone, without gender as a factor. But I think it's easier to tell people I'm bisexual as there's a better understanding of it."

Can you be both bisexual and pansexual?

Yes, you can identify as both bisexual and pansexual—and the terms are not mutually exclusive. You might find that you relate to each of the labels, and that both feel like an accurate way of describing your attraction and experiences. Plus, if you’re finding it difficult to choose just one term which you relate to more, you don’t have to! It can be affirming to embrace both identities.  

You might also feel that another label encompassing attraction to multiple genders—like multisexual, omnisexual, or polysexual—feels right for you too. Remember: attraction and identity is ever-evolving, and you don’t need to stick with one label forever.

Does bisexuality include attraction to non-binary genders?

Yes: bisexuality describes attraction to more than one gender, which encompasses non-binary genders too.

The “bi” part of the word may make you think of the binary gender framework which traditionally describes just men and women. But it’s a misconception that bisexuality only refers to these two genders. In fact, the multiple genders that make up bisexual attraction can include men, women, and non-binary, gender-nonconforming, and gender-expansive people too. 

Is pansexuality inherently more inclusive than bisexuality?

Due to misconceptions that bisexuality only describes attraction to men and women, some people might wrongly interpret pansexuality as more inclusive than being bi. Both bisexuality and pansexuality can encompass attraction to people across the gender spectrum. The main difference lies in whether that gender identity is a significant part of attraction.

And remember: you don’t need to worry about being inclusive in your attraction to others. You like who you like. 

Attraction to gender specifics vs. attraction regardless of gender

As previously discussed, bisexuality often involves attraction that can be gender-specific, meaning someone may experience attraction differently depending on the gender of the person. On the other hand, pansexuality tends to describe attraction that is more gender-independent, where gender isn't a defining factor in who they're drawn to. That said, both bisexual and pansexual folks can have preferences or feel their attraction operates outside of strict gender boundaries—it's all about how each person experiences and defines it.

How do I determine if I am bisexual or pansexual?

If you’re exploring whether “bisexual” or “pansexual” feels the most right for you, then don’t worry: you’re definitely not alone. The good news is that there’s a whole world of information out there for you to dig into. It might help you to sit with the definitions of each term (keep this article to hand), and see if one naturally feels more right than the other. 

It can also be enriching to hear about the experiences of other people who identify as bi or pan—either through content online, or through talking to people in your network. One person’s description of their attraction might resonate with your own, which can help you to land on a label that feels affirming.

If there’s somebody you feel attracted to, try asking yourself whether their gender identity is a part of that attraction for you. Does your attraction to men, women, or non-binary people feel different in a way that’s related to their gender? Or does gender not feel like a big part of it for you?

There are no wrong answers. And you don’t have to rush to find a label if it doesn’t feel empowering or natural.

Understanding the spectrum of bisexual and pansexual identities

Sexuality is ever-evolving. You don’t need to stick with one label for life: you might identify as bi now, then pan later, or something else altogether.

For many people, their bi or pan identity can also change shape fluidly. Some people experience what’s known as the “bi-cycle,” where their preferences in their attraction to multiple genders shift over time. It’s not as simple as having an “equal” attraction to all genders. You might be initially more attracted to one gender than another, and this might change and evolve, too.

One Feeld member, 28, shares their thoughts on identifying as bisexual: "Bisexuality means not being restricted by the boundaries of gender in who I choose to love, and who I get to be loved by. It pays respect to those before me as well in the LGBTQ+ community, who pioneered bisexuality as a way to be free and open about who they were."

On the other hand, those who identify as pansexual often describe their attraction as being more about personal qualities than gender, embracing an inclusive approach.

In an article for The Trevor Project, Sue Cardenas-Soto explains: "I just like people. I haven't ever found that my attraction to someone is solely based on or a result of their gender identity, but a combination of things: how they dress, what they do, how they move in space, what they're passionate about."

How definitions shape our sense of self and community

Our labels can shape how we see ourselves and connect with others. For example, embracing the label of bisexuality might help some people align with a broader, historical community, while others might choose pansexuality to emphasize that their attraction spans all genders.

According to data from Statista in 2023, 4% of people worldwide identified as bisexual, compared to 1% identifying as pansexual. One reason folks might prefer to identify as bisexual while being open to dating people of any gender, is that it is more widely known and "easier" to explain. However, more and more people are choosing to identify as pansexual, and research shows that the orientation resonates strongly with younger folks and those in the transgender community, according to Psychology Today.

Misconceptions about bisexuality and pansexuality

With bisexuality and pansexuality sometimes misunderstood, they also experience their fair share of misconceptions, too. Both bisexual and pansexual folks encounter issues such as bi-erasure (the tendency to dismiss bisexual identities) and face stereotypes about their attraction and relationship preferences. Some misconceptions include:

Bisexual people are only attracted to two genders: This idea doesn't fully capture the diversity of bisexual experiences, and bisexuality is sometimes misunderstood as excluding non-binary identities.

Bisexuality is a phase or down to indecisiveness: Some people wrongfully believe that bisexuality and pansexuality are just temporary stages that lead to identifying as gay or straight later on. In 2023, Ella Gauci highlighted this challenge in an article for Diva, writing: "The reality for bisexual people is that we are having to constantly remind people of our bisexuality." It’s important to remember that sexual attraction can stay the same over a lifetime, or it may change. And if it changes, it is not necessarily because of a previous identification with a particular sexual orientation.

Some bi people might also experience bi-erasure when dating someone of the same or a different gender. Jasmine, 31, says identifying as bisexual/pansexual and being with a man sometimes leads to assumptions from others. "I told my partner fairly early on in our relationship, and he's always been accepting. But when I tell others, there's sometimes confusion. For example, some people assume that because I'm with a man, I must now be straight, which isn't the case at all. My attraction to other genders doesn't stop because I'm in a relationship with him."

That bisexuality and pansexuality are the same: Some folks might use bisexuality and pansexuality interchangeably due to their overlap. However, each orientation is unique and specific to the person who identifies with it. While some might see similarities, others may have different interpretations and understandings.

That they're queerphobic: There's a misconception that bisexual or pansexual people might be afraid to come out as gay or are avoiding a more "authentic" queer identity. In truth, both bisexuality and pansexuality are valid and specific ways to describe a person's attraction to multiple genders. In addition, some bisexual folks feel they're not "queer enough" within LGBTQ+ spaces. Jenny, 35, shares, "There is sometimes a feeling I get with lesbian women that I'm not queer enough because I'm bi. But that certainly doesn't apply to everyone." 

That they're transphobic: A common stereotype is that bisexual folks are inherently transphobic or uninterested in non-binary people. M, 28, argues, "Some people think bisexuality is transphobic, which is complete bullshit and a misunderstanding of language and how people work." Many bisexual folks are open and supportive of all gender identities. Audrey, 27, adds, "I have heard/experienced that some people think that people who are bisexual are transphobic or not interested in non-binary people. But I have not found that [to be] true." Elsewhere, pansexuality can also be seen as transphobic; the notion of being "gender-blind" may unintentionally feel non-affirming for trans folks.

That they're promiscuous or "greedy": Another stereotype is that bisexual or pansexual folks are attracted to everyone they meet, which simply isn’t true. These orientations might include a broader spectrum of potential attractions, but they do not imply that someone is attracted to everyone or is inherently promiscuous. Like anyone else, they might choose to be with one or multiple partners, depending on their preferences. 

Sazzy, 24, reflects, "It's bizarre that people think bisexuals/pansexuals are more likely to cheat. Cheating does not have a sexuality. Some people are meant for monogamous relationships, and that includes bisexuals/pansexuals." Similarly, pansexual folks face misconceptions that they are attracted to everyone without boundaries. Jasmine adds: "Being pansexual doesn't mean I'm into anyone and everyone. It's about being open to attraction, not about lacking boundaries."

Shared community and support networks

Despite these challenges, bisexual and pansexual folks often find a strong sense of community within the broader LGBTQ+ spaces. This shared environment offers crucial support and solidarity. When asked how it feels to be bisexual within the LGBTQ+ community, Magnus, 28, a bisexual man, reflects, "I've met wonderful people who've been lovely about it."

However, bi-erasure remains a significant issue. Jody, 32, comments, "I think the community still has a lot to do to get rid of biphobia and really understand and accept what bisexuality and pansexuality are." This highlights the ongoing need for education and acceptance within the community.

Whether you identify as bisexual, pansexual, both or neither, one thing is clear: attraction can be complex, fluid, and ever-evolving. While both labels and identities offer people the language they need to express who they are and who they love, it's important to remember that what one label means to you might mean something different to someone else.

Stay curious, keep learning, and allow yourself the space to discover who you truly are. For more information on different sexualities and identities, see our Glossary page.

No matter where you are on your self-discovery journey, connecting with others can be an empowering step in exploring your identity. Find connections, and more, on Feeld.