LGBT is an abbreviation for “lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender.” The Q in LGBTQ can stand for either questioning (still exploring one’s sexuality) or queer, or sometimes both and it is sometimes written LGBTQQ. LGBTQ+ represents additional identities including intersex, asexual, pansexual and polyamorous. Other terms, including LGBTQIA and LGBTQQIA, sometimes with a * at the end, are sometimes used to represent this collections of diverse communities.
LGBTQ and LGBTQ+ are both acceptable in all references for lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, queer and/or questioning and other sexual and gender minorities.
In its most recent style guide, updated in March 2023, NLGJA: The Association of LGBTQ+ Journalists recommends using LGBTQ+ as the umbrella term for these groups, and in 2023, the Associated Press Stylebook revised its style to add the plus sign to LGBTQ.
In its Media Reference Guide, 11th edition, GLAAD recommends LGBTQ as the umbrella term.
The NLGJA Stylebook notes: “It may be tempting for journalists to refer to the LGBTQ+ community. In reality, it is a broad and sometimes loosely bound group of communities comprising people from all races, religions, cultures and walks of life. Referring to LGBTQ+ people is usually more accurate than defining it as one community.”
The Diversity Style Guide recommends the more inclusive term LGBTQ+.
Do not refer to an individual as LGBTQ or LGBTQ+.
Updated March 2023
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