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Be physical: meaning, definitions and examples

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be physical

[bi ˈfɪzɪkəl ]

Definitions

^{Context #1 | Verb}

action

To be physically active or engage in physical activity.

Synonyms

be active, engage in physical activity, exercise.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

Word	Description / Examples
be physical	This phrase typically implies exerting force or using physical strength, sometimes in a negative or aggressive context. During the game, he started to be physical with the other players. In heated discussions, they often became physical.
be active	Use this when referring to a general state of movement or engagement in various activities. It is appropriate for encouraging a lifestyle that includes regular motion and participation in activities. It's important to be active to maintain good health. She likes to be active and goes hiking every weekend.

Word

Description / Examples

be physical

This phrase typically implies exerting force or using physical strength, sometimes in a negative or aggressive context.

During the game, he started to be physical with the other players.
In heated discussions, they often became physical.

be active

Use this when referring to a general state of movement or engagement in various activities. It is appropriate for encouraging a lifestyle that includes regular motion and participation in activities.

It's important to be active to maintain good health.
She likes to be active and goes hiking every weekend.

Examples of usage

It's important to be physical and exercise regularly.
He loves to be physical and play sports with his friends.

^{Context #2 | Verb}

intimacy

To engage in physical intimacy or closeness with someone, often in a romantic or sexual way.

Synonyms

be intimate, engage in physical closeness, show physical affection.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

Word	Description / Examples
be physical	This is a repeat of the first word and has the same context and examples.
be intimate	This phrase is best used when referring to close, personal, and often emotional connections between people. It usually implies a deeper level of closeness and sometimes romantic relationships. They took some time to be intimate and discuss their feelings. Being intimate with your partner is important for a healthy relationship.
show physical affection	This phrase is most appropriate when referring to gestures like hugging, kissing, or holding hands that demonstrate love and care. It is most commonly used in the context of romantic relationships, families, or close friendships. It's important to show physical affection in a relationship. They always show physical affection by hugging and holding hands.
engage in physical closeness	This phrase is used to describe actions that involve being physically near or touching someone in a non-aggressive and usually affectionate manner. It can be used in family, friendships, and romantic relationships. Parents should engage in physical closeness with their children to provide comfort. Couples often engage in physical closeness to show their love.

Examples of usage

They like to be physical and hold hands while walking.
The couple enjoys being physical and cuddling on the couch.

Translations

Translations of the word "be physical" in other languages:

🇵🇹 ser físico

🇮🇳 शारीरिक हो

🇩🇪 körperlich sein

🇮🇩 menjadi fisik

🇺🇦 бути фізичним

🇵🇱 być fizycznym

🇯🇵 身体的になる

🇫🇷 être physique

🇪🇸 ser físico

🇹🇷 fiziksel olmak

🇰🇷 신체적이다

🇸🇦 أن تكون جسديًا

🇨🇿 být fyzický

🇸🇰 byť fyzický

🇨🇳 成为身体的

🇸🇮 biti fizičen

🇮🇸 vera líkamlegur

🇰🇿 физикалық болу

🇬🇪 იყო ფიზიკური

🇦🇿 fiziki olmaq

🇲🇽 ser físico

Etymology

The phrase 'be physical' originates from the combination of the verb 'be' and the adjective 'physical', which dates back to the late Middle English period. The concept of being physical has always been associated with bodily movements, actions, and interactions, reflecting the importance of physical health and intimacy in human relationships.