What is the difference?
Asexual vs Aromantic
Asexual and aromantic are both spectrum identities and are often abbreviated together as "aroace", so people assume they mean the same thing. Asexual is about sexual attraction; aromantic is about romantic attraction.
Asexual
Describes a person who experiences little or no sexual attraction to others. Asexual people may still want romance, closeness or relationships.
Full entryAromantic
Describes a person who experiences little or no romantic attraction. Aromantic people may still value close friendships, family and sometimes sexual relationships.
Full entrySide by side
In short
Asexual answers "do I feel sexual attraction?"; aromantic answers "do I feel romantic attraction?". A person can be one, both or neither.
What they have in common
Both are orientations rather than conditions or choices, both have their own spectrum, and someone can be both (aroace).
More comparisons
- Affirmative consentvsEnthusiastic consentAffirmative consent is about getting a clear yes; enthusiastic consent goes a step further and cares whether that yes is truly wanted.
- Bacterial vaginosisvsThrushA fishy smell points more towards BV, itching more towards thrush, but symptoms overlap, so it is worth getting them checked by a pharmacist, doctor or sexual health clinic.
- BDSMvsIntimate partner violence 18+Calling something BDSM never makes non-consensual harm acceptable. If limits are pushed, safewords ignored or fear creeps in, it is abuse, and domestic abuse services can help.
- BisexualvsPansexualThe meanings overlap a great deal; people choose bisexual or pansexual based on which word feels right to them, and both are equally valid.
Last reviewed 10 October 2026. Spotted a mistake?