In Girls — Shemales

While the "shemale" label specifically refers to those who have not had bottom surgery, academic research emphasizes that genital autonomy is a critical part of self-determination. 4. Cultural Sub-usage

In very rare academic contexts, the term has been used metaphorically. For example, a 2009 study used the phrase "Shemale" Gangsters to describe young women in the UK who adopted hyper-masculine, aggressive behaviors to survive or gain status within male-dominated gangs. This usage refers to behavioral "masculinity" in cisgender girls rather than gender identity. Girls and Gangs: 'Shemale' Gangsters in the UK? shemales in girls

Trans women often face transmisogyny —a combination of transphobia and misogyny. This is frequently intensified by factors like race, caste, or socio-economic status. While the "shemale" label specifically refers to those

In professional and social contexts, the preferred term is trans woman or "transgender woman". For example, a 2009 study used the phrase

The term "shemale" emerged primarily within the adult industry to describe individuals with female secondary sex characteristics (such as breasts) who retain male genitalia. Because of this association, many trans women find the term degrading, as it often reduces their identity to a sexual category or implies they are sex workers.