gay (adj.)

gay is predominantly used to refer to men who are attracted to men, but it is often used in casual contexts (and in headlines) to describe LGBTQIA people, communities, issues, and events more broadly. Note that in many contexts it is preferable to use more inclusive terms, as the use of “gay” to stand for all can be viewed as obscuring these other groups. Also note that not all men who engage in same-gender sexual behavior identify as gay, so use the adjective cautiously. “Men who have sex with men,” if that is what you mean, can be used to describe a group regardless of how they self-identify. "Gay" is preferred to "homosexual"; the latter emphasizes sexual practice whereas "gay" refers to the person’s identity more broadly. “Homosexuality” is OK when describing the specific sexual aspects of lesbian or gay identity. A person's sexual orientation is irrelevant in most situations; question the need to mention it. Some people feel they can no longer use "gay" in its meaning of merry, lively, or high-spirited. However, there is usually more anti-gay sentiment being expressed here than a legitimate linguistic grievance. Because people think of their sexuality in a much more fluid way today, there is less binary thinking (you're either gay or you're straight), and younger people tend to see themselves more as individuals and less defined by their sexuality. Check with the people you're writing about and writing for; they may prefer terms like "queer" or "open" or “LGBTQIA.” See also gay (n.), gay "lifestyle," gay man, Gay rights, homophobia, homosexual, lesbian, queer.