Actually, I first encountered the word “feminine” when I was still an undergraduate. When I started working on my thesis project, I proposed a topic, and my advisor told me, “Do you know that what you’re trying to do is something most Thai women don’t do? But it’s not a bad thing. Try looking up the word ‘feminine’ before you start your project.” At that time, I didn’t know what it meant. It was a new term to me, especially considering that 6-7 years ago, in a country with a patriarchal system, it was rare to see women as leaders in the workplace, family, or society. I had no idea what the term meant back then, especially in English, which made it even harder to understand.
I started to research and found that there were actually two terms people were using: “feminine” and “feminist.” I was very confused at the time and couldn’t grasp the difference between the two. As time passed and society changed, with Western culture becoming more accepted in Thailand, these terms became more widely used. However, I still didn’t quite understand them, so I never thought of myself as “feminine” or a “feminist.” When I looked at the definitions, there were aspects of both that resonated with me and parts that didn’t. Compared to activists who advocate for these rights, I felt like I was at the bottom of the line, so I never felt confident enough to claim that identity.
Then Elizabeth told me that it doesn’t have to fit the label others give. If we feel like we want to protect and advocate for women’s rights—not all women, but certain groups—then we can already consider ourselves “feminine.” This led me to start anew, researching more about the topic. Here is a summary of what I’ve gathered based on my understanding.
The term “feminine” generally refers to qualities, behaviors, attributes, or characteristics that are traditionally associated with women or girls. These associations are often shaped by cultural, social, and historical contexts and can vary significantly across different societies. Here’s a deeper look into what “feminine” might mean:
1. Cultural and Social Connotations
- Traits and Characteristics: In many cultures, qualities such as gentleness, empathy, nurturing, sensitivity, and compassion are often labeled as feminine. However, these traits are not exclusive to women; they can be present in anyone, regardless of gender.
- Appearance and Aesthetics: The concept of femininity can also extend to physical appearance, including styles of dress, grooming habits, and other aspects of presentation. For example, wearing dresses, applying makeup, or having long hair are often socially perceived as feminine expressions.
- Roles and Expectations: Traditional roles, such as caregiving, homemaking, or nurturing children, have historically been associated with femininity in many societies.
2. Biological Perspective
- From a biological standpoint, “feminine” can refer to the physical traits or characteristics typically associated with female bodies, such as the ability to bear children, breasts, and broader hips. However, it’s important to note that not all individuals who identify as feminine have these biological traits, and femininity is not inherently linked to biology.
3. Personal Identity and Expression
- Gender Identity: For many people, femininity is part of their gender identity. They may feel a deep personal connection to being feminine, which can be expressed in various ways, from the way they dress and present themselves to the ways they behave and interact with others.
- Gender Expression: Feminine expression isn’t limited to women; people of any gender may express themselves in ways that are considered feminine. This can be a deliberate and empowering choice, challenging traditional norms and redefining what it means to be feminine.
4. Intersection with Feminism and Gender Studies
- Challenging Stereotypes: Many modern discussions around femininity involve questioning and challenging traditional stereotypes. Feminism and gender studies explore how these stereotypes can be restrictive and how individuals can redefine what it means to be feminine on their own terms.
- Fluidity of Femininity: Contemporary views on gender and identity often see femininity as fluid, a spectrum rather than a fixed point. It can be redefined and personalized by each individual, free from societal constraints.
5. Cultural Variability
- The traits and behaviors considered feminine can vary widely between cultures and change over time. What one society considers feminine may not hold the same meaning in another, and norms around femininity have evolved significantly in many parts of the world.
In summary, “feminine” is a multi-dimensional concept that encompasses a range of characteristics, expressions, and identities. It’s a term that is both culturally and personally defined, and its meaning can vary based on context, perspective, and individual experience.
I came across a TED Talk on this topic. I’m someone who struggles with reading, so I prefer listening instead. The TED Talk is titled “We Should All Be Feminists” by Chimamanda Ngozi Adichie.