BY THE OPTIMIST DAILY EDITORIAL TEAM

The term ‘Latinx’ has sparked intense disputes, particularly in the United States, where it originally became popular. However, while ‘Latinx’ has gained popularity in academic circles and activist communities, it has not been broadly accepted by the people it seeks to represent, notably in Spanish-speaking nations such as Argentina and Spain. In fact, both countries have officially outlawed the use of ‘Latinx’ and other gender-neutral terminology, claiming that they contravene Spanish language regulations.

So where does this leave us? Is ‘Latinx’ truly the inclusive term it claims to be? Or is there a better choice that works more organically with the Spanish language? “Here’s how one simple change could help create a more inclusive world without the linguistic barriers of “Latinx.”

The origins and limits of ‘Latinx’

The exact origins of ‘Latinx’ are unclear, however, it surfaced around 2004 and gained popularity by 2014, particularly among progressive and academic organizations. Merriam-Webster even added the term to its dictionary in 2018. Despite its prominence in intellectual circles, the term ‘Latinx’ has yet to catch on in daily language use. 

According to a Pew Research study from 2019, less than five percent of the Hispanic population in the United States identified with the word. A 2021 Gallup poll found similar trends, with the majority of individuals identifying as “Latino” or “Latina.” While the term ‘Latinx’ may appear modern and forward-thinking, its limited use raises questions about its true inclusiveness.

Who uses ‘Latinx’?

When you look at the demographics, people who use or are aware of ‘Latinx’ are primarily young people born in the United States, ages 18 to 29, who speak English and have a college education. This shows an uncomfortable truth: the term appears to be most common among more privileged and educated people, whereas marginalized groups are less likely to use it. 

It is often worrying when scholars and activists impose a social identity on a group of individuals who do not self-identify in that way. The fact that academics frequently use the term ‘Latinx’ while many members of the community reject it raises concerns about its inclusivity—or lack thereof.

The pronunciation problem

Let’s get practical: ‘Latinx’ doesn’t function well in Spanish. For starters, it’s difficult to pronounce. Unlike English, where ‘Latinx’ is pronounced “la-teen-ex,” the “x” sound does not come readily in Spanish, especially when referring to nationalities. The terms “Mexicanx” and “Argentinx” simply do not sound right. How do you pronounce gendered articles like “lxs” rather than “los” or “las”? 

Beyond difficult pronunciation, Spanish is also a gendered language, and ‘Latinx’ does not follow the natural structure of the language. When applied to different words, pronouns, and articles, the logic falls apart. 

‘Latine’: a better alternative

Fortunately, there is a far more sensible solution: “Latine.” Pronounced “lah-teen-eh,” this phrase is already popular among young activists in Latin America and works well in Spanish. Unlike “Latinx,” the “e” sound blends into words and can readily replace gendered endings such as “o” and “a.” For example, you can use “les estudiantes” (the students) instead of “los estudiantes” or “las estudiantes,” which includes all genders.

The term “Latine” can also refer to several nationalities. It is simple to speak “Mexicane” or “Argentine” without fumbling over odd consonants. Furthermore, Spanish already uses “e” for gender-neutral nouns such as “estudiante” (student), so “Latine” adheres to an established linguistic pattern.

The importance of language

Language influences how we perceive the world, and gendered languages such as Spanish can reinforce preconceptions and discrimination. Lera Boroditsky, a cognitive scientist, demonstrated that in gendered languages, even ostensibly neutral items are characterized differently depending on their grammatical gender. For example, Germans, who have a feminine word for bridge, characterize them as “beautiful” or “elegant,” but Spanish speakers, who have a masculine word for bridge, use adjectives like “strong” or “tall.”

By adopting the term “Latine,” we can overcome these gendered limits while preserving the Spanish language’s integrity. It is a gender-neutral alternative that does not destroy the identities of individuals who prefer “Latino” or “Latina” but does provide another inclusive option for those who require it.

Moving beyond ‘Latinx’

While Argentina and Spain’s restrictions on ‘Latinx’ extended to “Latine,” it is critical to understand that language evolves continually, whether as a result of technological advancements or adjustments in social awareness. Just as terms like “wife-beating” have evolved into “intimate partner violence,” language can and should adapt to reflect more inclusive ways of thinking.

Ultimately, words matter. And “Latine” is a more natural, approachable, and really inclusive solution—across gender, nationality, and cultural identity. It respects the structure of the Spanish language while celebrating the diversity of those it represents.