Have you ever wondered if you're bisexual, pansexual, or maybe both? We feel you. Exploring your sexuality is a personal journey, and for many, it's one that's open to growth and change.
Labels can be helpful for some folks, offering clarity and connection as they navigate their experiences and try new things. For others, they can feel restrictive, unable to capture the full spectrum of their feelings or desires. And when labels are used interchangeably, it can add either an extra layer of understanding or confusion.
As our understanding of gender and attraction continues to evolve, the language we use matters. Let's take a look at the difference between bisexual and pansexual, how people define the two terms, and the experiences of folks who have lived these identities firsthand.
What is bisexuality?
In simple terms, bisexuality refers to being attracted to more than one gender. And though the ability to be attracted to multiple genders is part of it, for some people, this is different to not seeing or taking into account one's gender (which is how some people understand pansexuality—but more on that in a sec). "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."
But while some people still interpret it 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 is pansexuality?
Pansexuality is often 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."
Key differences between bisexuality and pansexuality
While bisexuality and pansexuality both involve attraction to multiple genders, the distinctions between these labels can vary depending on who you ask. Conversations happening in online forums and discussions in the media—including the responses from those we surveyed—show that some feel that there aren’t significant differences between the two sexualities. However, it’s important to note that a common perception is that bisexuality may not include non-binary or trans individuals, which can influence how some people identify with or understand these terms.
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."
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 people identify and describe their attraction
The way folks identify and describe their attraction often comes down to how comfortable they are with labels. 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."
Unfortunately, how people choose to identify can be influenced by external and societal pressures, among several other things. In a 2021 study called "It's Like Bisexuality, but It Isn't", one woman, 19, who identifies as panromantic, said: "I think there are many different ways to define bisexuality, and it doesn't necessarily exclude nonbinary individuals. Older generations sometimes have trouble understanding new terms, so I've heard people my age use 'bisexual' around older family members, while still going as 'pansexual' to close friends."
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 people might prefer to identify as bisexual while being open to dating anybody 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.
Similarities between bisexuality and pansexuality
Let’s take a look at the similarities. After all, there’s a reason that the two are often used interchangeably or even get confused. 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.
Both bisexuality and pansexuality face distinct societal perceptions. The common misconception that bisexual people are attracted to only two genders doesn't fully capture the diversity of bisexual experiences. Bisexuality is sometimes misunderstood as excluding non-binary identities, as a phase or indecisiveness. And when a bisexual person is dating someone, it’s often suggested that they have “made their mind up”, otherwise known as bi-erasure. In 2023, Ella Gauci highlighted this challenge in an article for Diva magazine: "The reality for bisexual people is that we are having to constantly remind people of our bisexuality".
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."
Pansexuality, while often seen as inclusive, can also be misinterpreted. Some might think it means being attracted to everyone or that it disregards gender altogether. As Kat, 38, said: "There's very little understanding of pansexuality," which sometimes leads to confusion and incorrect assumptions.
Other common misconceptions or ill-informed, ignorant stereotypes that bisexual and pansexual people are faced with include:
That their sexuality is a fad or phase: Some people believe that bisexuality and pansexuality are just temporary stages that lead to identifying as gay or straight later on. Sexual attraction can stay the same over a lifetime, or it may change. If it changes, it is not necessarily because of a previous identification with a particular sexual orientation.
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. Granted, this one might simply come from people not knowing enough about the two sexualities.
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.
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 as true. Honestly, most bisexual people who have described their bisexuality to me sound like they're actually pansexual." However, 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.
Explore the depths of your attraction with Feeld.
