Did you know there’s a difference between “deaf” and “Deaf”?

You might have seen the phrase “deaf vs. Deaf” pop up on social media, in articles, or even in conversation — and wondered what it actually means. Is it just a matter of grammar? A typo? Or is there something deeper at play?

We posted about this on Instagram, asking: “Did you know there is a difference between deaf and Deaf?”

It sparked an incredible, heartfelt discussion — one that made it clear this topic isn’t black and white.

So let’s open it up further, not to impose a definition, but to invite conversation.

So, what’s the difference?

Traditionally, people have used these terms to draw a line between:

👉 Deaf (with a capital D) – those who identify as part of a cultural and linguistic community. They use sign language (such as BSL, Auslan, or ASL) and often grew up with it, although not always. For them, being Deaf is not about lacking something — it’s about belonging to a rich culture with its own language, values, and traditions.

👉 deaf (with a lowercase d) – a more medical term, referring to hearing loss. It can include people who lost their hearing gradually or later in life, and who may not use sign language or be part of the signing community.

These terms were created to help people describe their experiences. But as many of you pointed out — the lived reality is far more complex.

“I’m Deaf but I don’t sign — where do I fit?”

This is one of the most common and honest responses we received. And the truth is: identity doesn’t always fit neatly into a dictionary.

Some people were born deaf, didn’t have access to sign language, and are now learning it later in life. Others grew up oral, or live in places where sign language wasn’t available or supported. Some people use a mix of speech, signing, lipreading, writing, technology — whatever works best for them. And many said:

“I consider myself Deaf even though I don’t sign.”

“I’m deaf and I’m learning to sign – it’s hard, but I’m trying. That doesn’t make me ‘less’ Deaf.”

“The label Deaf doesn’t feel like it belongs to me… but I wish it did.”

These are not just comments — they’re real, layered feelings about identity, belonging, and how language can both connect and divide.

Let’s be real — the labels can hurt too

Some of you shared painful experiences of being excluded from the Deaf community because you didn’t sign fluently, or because you didn’t grow up “Deaf enough.” One comment read:

“I’ve found that these terms have promoted other deaf people bullying me because I wasn’t given the opportunity to learn sign language.”

That’s not what these terms were meant for — and it’s heartbreaking to hear that language meant to describe has ended up creating barriers.

Others shared joy, connection, and personal growth:

“Our daughter was born deaf. She uses cochlear implants but feels most at ease with others who sign. We see the value in both worlds.”

“I learned something new today. This will help me in my work and with my clients.”

We’re grateful for every single comment, story, and reflection.

So… should we still use d/Deaf?

There’s no simple answer.

Some still find the distinction useful — a way to describe lived experience.

Others find it alienating or unnecessary.And many live in the space between.

Maybe the real takeaway is this: we should let people define themselves. Deaf, deaf, hard of hearing, late-deafened, oral, signing, non-signing — every path is valid.

As one commenter put it beautifully:

“I consider myself Deaf. Period.”

Where do we go from here?

Let’s keep the conversation open. Let’s respect how people choose to identify. And let’s make space for evolving identities, learning curves, and lived experiences.

If this post taught you something new, pass it on. If it raised questions for you — we’d love to hear them. If it made you feel seen — we’re honoured you’re here.

Drop a comment, share your story, tag a friend. The more we talk, the more we understand. 

Thank you to everyone who joined the conversation on Instagram — your voices are the heart of this article.