Sex: meaning, definitions and examples

Typically used as a general term to refer to the act of sexual activity. Commonly found in informal or casual conversations, as well as in scientific or medical contexts.

• They had sex for the first time last night.
• Sex education is important for teenagers.

An umbrella term used in formal and medical contexts to encompass all types of sexual acts, behaviors, and experiences. Often found in health-related discussions, surveys, and legal language.

• The research examined the patterns of sexual activity among adults.
• Sexual activity can have both physical and emotional health benefits.

Frequently used in formal, medical, or legal contexts to describe the physical act of sex. It is less common in casual conversations and can sometimes be perceived as clinical or clinical-sounding.

• The doctor discussed the risks of sexual intercourse with the patients.
• Intercourse without consent is a serious crime.

Used in scientific, biological, or formal discussions to refer to the mating process of animals, including humans. It is not commonly used in everyday conversation.

• Copulation in certain species of birds is a complex ritual.
• The study focused on the copulation habits of the subjects.

Use 'sex' also when referring to sexual activity, but be aware that this context often carries a private or intimate connotation.

• They decided to talk about sex education with their teenager.
• The movie has a few scenes that discuss sex and relationships.

Use 'gender' when discussing the social, cultural, and psychological attributes associated with being male or female. This term includes the roles, behaviors, activities, and expectations that society considers appropriate for men and women.

• He is studying the impact of gender roles in traditional societies.
• The workshop addressed gender equality in the workplace.

Use 'gender identity' to refer to an individual's personal sense of their own gender, which may or may not correspond with their sex assigned at birth.

• She identifies as female, regardless of her sex at birth.
• Understanding a person's gender identity is crucial for respecting their pronouns.

Use 'gender expression' when talking about how a person publicly presents or expresses their gender. This can include clothing, behavior, and personal appearance.

• Her gender expression includes wearing dresses and makeup.
• They feel more comfortable when their gender expression matches their identity.

Commonly used in casual, everyday conversation. It is straightforward and universally understood, though it can sometimes be seen as less polite in sensitive settings.

• They had sex for the first time last night.
• He asked her about having sex.

Used in formal contexts, such as scientific, medical, or legal discussions. This phrase is more specific and explicit than 'sex'.

• The study examined how often teenagers engage in sexual activity.
• Participants were asked if they had engaged in sexual activity in the last month.

Used in polite, formal, or sensitive contexts. It is often chosen to avoid explicit language and can also suggest an emotional connection.

• They had intimate relations during their vacation.
• The book discusses the role of intimate relations in a healthy marriage.