What does passing refer to in the context of gender identity?

In the context of gender identity, passing refers to the experience of being perceived as the gender that one identifies with, rather than the sex assigned at birth. This concept is particularly significant for transgender and non-binary individuals, as it relates to their desire for their external presentation—such as their appearance, mannerisms, and behavior—to align with their internal understanding of their gender identity.

The correct understanding highlights that passing is fundamentally about the social perception that occurs when others recognize and accept an individual as the gender they identify with, thus validating their identity. This can contribute to a sense of belonging and acceptance within society and can also have implications for an individual's mental health and safety in various social contexts.