Promiscuousness: meaning, definitions and examples

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promiscuousness

 

[ prəˈmɪskjuəsnəs ]

Noun
Context #1 | Noun

in relationships

Promiscuousness refers to the practice of engaging in casual sexual relationships with multiple partners, often without commitment or emotional attachment.

Synonyms

licentiousness, looseness, promiscuity.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
promiscuousness

This word suggests having casual and frequent sexual relationships with many different people. It is often used in a negative or critical context.

  • Her promiscuousness was a topic of gossip in the small town.
  • The novel explores themes of love and promiscuousness.
promiscuity

Much like 'promiscuousness,' this word describes engaging in casual sexual relationships with multiple partners. It is typically used in a disapproving manner.

  • The study examined the causes of promiscuity among teenagers.
  • He was criticized for his promiscuity and inability to maintain a long-term relationship.
licentiousness

This word refers to a lack of moral or legal restraints, especially in sexual behavior. It has a very strong negative connotation.

  • The licentiousness of the villain shocked the readers.
  • He was known for his licentiousness and lack of respect for the law.
looseness

This word can refer to a general lack of strictness or discipline, and can apply to various situations, including sexual behavior. It may not always carry a strong negative connotation but implies a degree of carelessness.

  • The looseness of rules at the party led to chaos.
  • Her looseness with relationships made her difficult to commit to anyone.

Examples of usage

  • She was known for her promiscuousness, always dating multiple people at once.
  • His promiscuousness led to a number of complicated relationships.
Context #2 | Noun

general

Promiscuousness can also refer to a general lack of restraint or discrimination in various aspects of life, not just limited to sexual behavior.

Synonyms

immoderation, indiscrimination, recklessness.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
promiscuousness

Typically used in a sexual context, indicating a person has multiple casual sexual partners.

  • Her promiscuousness led to many failed relationships
indiscrimination

Describes lack of careful choice or selection, often in decisions or actions.

  • The hiring process was criticized for indiscrimination, leading to unqualified employees being hired
recklessness

Refers to careless or heedless actions that may cause harm or danger.

  • His recklessness behind the wheel put everyone at risk
immoderation

Refers to lack of moderation in general aspects like eating, drinking, or behavior.

  • His immoderation in drinking caused health problems

Examples of usage

  • His promiscuousness in spending money led to financial troubles.
  • The promiscuousness of the company's hiring practices resulted in a lack of qualified employees.

Translations

Translations of the word "promiscuousness" in other languages:

🇵🇹 promiscuidade

🇮🇳 व्यभिचार

🇩🇪 Promiskuität

🇮🇩 promiskuitas

🇺🇦 розпусність

🇵🇱 promiskuityzm

🇯🇵 乱交

🇫🇷 promiscuité

🇪🇸 promiscuidad

🇹🇷 düzensizlik

🇰🇷 난잡함

🇸🇦 اختلاط

🇨🇿 promiskuita

🇸🇰 promiskuita

🇨🇳 滥交

🇸🇮 promiskuiteta

🇮🇸 lauslæti

🇰🇿 бейберекетсіздік

🇬🇪 გაუგებრობა

🇦🇿 əxlaqsızlıq

🇲🇽 promiscuidad

Etymology

The word 'promiscuousness' is derived from the Latin word 'promiscuus', meaning 'mixed, indiscriminate'. The term has been used in English since the 17th century to describe behavior that is not selective or restrained. Over time, it has come to be associated primarily with sexual behavior, but can also be used in a broader sense to describe a lack of discrimination or restraint in other areas of life.