key terms: asexual, ace, aromantic, aro, aroace
hey there it’s cj, your local aroace pal. i’ve gotten some questions about what it means to be aromantic or asexual (or both!) and i want to take the time to answer that.
Asexuality / Asexual / Ace
a sexual orientation characterized by experiencing little to no sexual attraction to others. Asexuality is a spectrum; asexual people may experience no, little, or conditional sexual attraction, and they may still have romantic relationships, high emotional intimacy, or a sex drive, even if they lack the drive to be sexual with others.
Aromanticism / Aromantic / Aro
a person who experiences little to no romantic attraction to others, representing a distinct romantic orientation rather than a personal choice. While aromantics may not feel "in love," they can still form deep, loving, non-romantic, or queerplatonic relationships.
Aromantic - Asexual / AroAce
… shorthand for "aromantic asexual," describing individuals who experience little to no romantic or sexual attraction to others. As a blend of two identities, it sits on both the aromantic and asexual spectrums, though individuals may still value close, non-romantic, or non-sexual relationships (such as queerplatonic partnerships).
Remember, both asexuality and aromanticism are spectrums so your experience may be different that someone else's. :)