What Does Bicurious Mean? Understanding Bicuriousity & Sexuality

Curiosity about sexuality is natural, and today more people are exploring questions about their attractions and identities. One term you may come across is “bicurious”. But what does it mean, and how is it different from being bisexual or other sexual orientations? This comprehensive guide will explain the concept of being bicurious, the differences from related terms, and why this journey of questioning is both normal and valid.

Defining “Bicurious”: Core Meaning

Bicurious describes someone who is primarily attracted to one gender—often the opposite of their own—but is open to or curious about exploring attraction, romantic feelings, or sexual experiences with another gender, typically the same gender. It reflects both openness and uncertainty, suggesting a willingness to explore without adopting a fixed label like bisexual.

• A woman who dates men but wonders what it’s like to kiss or date another woman might consider herself bicurious.
• A straight man intrigued by intimacy with another man could be described as bicurious.

The term combines “bi” (two) and “curious” (being interested in discovery). Unlike bisexuality—where consistent attraction to more than one gender is felt—bicuriosity implies a phase, question, or self-exploration.

🔍 Bicurious vs Bisexual: What’s the Difference?

📘 Definitions

• Bicurious: Curious about same-gender attraction but unsure of one’s orientation.
• Bisexual: Attracted to two or more genders and identifies that way.

🧠 Commitment

• Bicurious: A phase, mindset, or question—often not acted on.
• Bisexual: A stable, affirmed identity based on lived experience.

💬 Experience

• Bicurious: May or may not have tried same-gender experiences.
• Bisexual: Has typically felt and explored attraction to multiple genders.

🕒 Duration

• Bicurious: Often temporary or experimental.
• Bisexual: Ongoing and acknowledged sexual orientation.

Bicurious people are questioning; bisexual people are usually certain of their attractions.

Related Concepts: Heteroflexible, Homoflexible, and Sexual Fluidity

• Heteroflexible: Mostly straight people occasionally open to same-gender experiences. They may not actively question their orientation but are open to exceptions.
• Homoflexible: Mostly gay but open to experiences with the opposite gender.
• Sexual Fluidity: Describes the capacity for flexible, situation-dependent changes in sexual responsiveness—suggesting one’s preferences may shift over time (not the same as being bicurious, which is more a single question or phase).

Is Being Bicurious a Sexual Orientation?

Not exactly. Bicurious is more a descriptive term about a person’s curiosity and willingness to explore, rather than a rooted sexual orientation like bisexual, pansexual, or gay. It’s a mindset or phase, and some people may never feel the need to formalize it into a specific identity.

Why Do People Identify as Bicurious?

1. Uncertainty or Early Exploration: Not everyone has certainty about their attractions early on. Bicurious is a comfortable, low-pressure label for exploring.
2. Cultural Openness: With society becoming more accepting of diverse identities, more people feel free to experiment and acknowledge curiosity.
3. No Pressure for Labels: It allows individuals to take time figuring things out without committing to being bisexual or another identity.

The Bicurious Journey: Self-Discovery and Exploration

• Recognizing Patterns: You may notice feelings or thoughts that don’t fit your usual attractions. This may spark the journey.
• Testing the Waters: Some may try new experiences: flirting with the same gender, joining inclusive dating apps, or talking to others who have questioned their orientation1.
• Emotional Response: Curiosity may be accompanied by excitement, anxiety, confusion, or relief. All are normal parts of questioning sexuality.
• No Deadlines: Some people explore quickly; others may remain bicurious for years. It’s a personal process.

Common Questions about Bicuriousity

Is being bicurious normal?

Absolutely. Questioning and curiosity about sexuality are natural and healthy at any age.

Do I have to act on my curiosity?

No. Some people explore through thoughts or fantasy, while others may prefer real-life experiences. There’s no required path.

Can bicuriosity be permanent?

For some, yes—bicuriosity might never resolve into a specific identity, and that’s okay.

Is “bicurious” an offensive or trivializing term?

Context matters. If used to invalidate someone’s feelings, it can be hurtful. But as a self-identifier, it is perfectly valid and can even be empowering.

Myths & Misconceptions

• Bicurious is just a phase.
  • For many, yes—but for others, it’s a lifelong aspect of their self-exploration.
• You can’t be bicurious without experience.
  • Many are curious without ever acting on it; the feeling is valid either way.
• Bicurious equals bisexual.
  • Bicurious is about questioning; bisexual is claiming an ongoing, multi-gender attraction46.

Social Realities: Community, Representation & Identity

Bicuriosity can face challenges:

• Bisexual Erasure: Sometimes, bicurious journeys are dismissed, contributing to social invisibility for bisexual people7.
• Queer Community Debates: There is some debate about whether bicurious individuals should be grouped with bisexual, gay, or heterosexual communities.

Despite occasional controversy, bicuriosity represents an honest and important part of many people’s sexual development and self-acceptance.

Tips for Navigating Bicuriousity

• Take your time: There’s no rush to find answers or choose a label.
• Seek support: Friends, LGBTQ+ groups, forums, or therapists can help.
• Communicate with partners: Honesty and consent are key in exploration.
• Respect yourself: Every journey is unique, and feelings should not be minimized.

Conclusion: The Importance of Curiosity

To be bicurious is to embrace exploration—without fear or pressure. It’s about being open to the unknown, making space for complex feelings, and granting yourself permission to wonder, discover, and possibly grow.

Whether your journey ends with a new label, a new relationship, or simply a deeper understanding of yourself, your curiosity is valid. In a diverse world, exploring attractions and identities is a celebration of the many forms of love and selfhood.