Emily Clarke

What is the Difference Between Gray-Asexual vs. Asexual?

Contrary to what some might believe, sexual attraction and identity aren't strictly binary or rigidly structured. While most are familiar with homosexuality, bisexuality, and heterosexuality, plenty of less-understood sexualities exist.

Take, for example, gray-asexuality and asexuality. While similar, these two sexualities are distinct.

Understanding Gray-Asexuality

Also known as graysexuality or gray-ace, this sexuality is marked by infrequent sexual attraction. It often falls under the asexual umbrella, and many graysexuals meet others on an asexual dating site.

So, how does it differ from standard asexuality?

People who identify as asexual have no intrinsic sexual attraction to anyone. They can still feel love towards others, but there's no sexual element to the attraction.

With graysexuals, there's minor sexual attraction. It might be infrequent or low intensity, but that subtle sexual interest is present. Even though it might be irregular, it exists nonetheless.

Some confuse anything under the umbrella of asexuality as simply a lack of libido. But it's not that simple. Libido refers to the need for sexual pleasure. Meanwhile, sexual attraction is wanting to engage in activity based on pure attraction alone.

There's a subtle difference there, and people under that asexual umbrella don't feel the same physical, sexual attraction as others do.

The Importance of Self-Identification

Ultimately, the definition of asexuality and graysexuality comes down to how a person self-identifies. Gray-asexuality is fluid. It can change between people and situations.

It can be challenging for self-identifying graysexuals to pinpoint precisely when they feel attraction. For some, it only occurs under specific circumstances. Others might view sex as unimportant.

Either way, their feelings are valid. Sexuality is complex, and the spectrum of graysexuality is no different. It doesn't matter how someone chooses to express affection or love. It all depends on how they identify.

Finding Others on the Asexual Spectrum

Whether you identify as gray-ace or pure asexual, finding other like-minded individuals isn't easy. Luckily, there are many great communities out there! Sign up for an asexual dating site, and you can find others who view the complexities of sexuality just like you.

Author Resource:-

Emily Clarke writes about social networking apps and LGBT community. You can find her thoughts at LGBTQ app blog.