a sexual connotation

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "a sexual connotation" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when discussing words, phrases, or actions that imply a sexual meaning or undertone.
Example: "The phrase he used had a sexual connotation that made everyone uncomfortable."
Alternatives: "a sexual implication" or "a sexual undertone".

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Encyclopedias

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

27 human-written examples

And dare I say it, sexually too? there is a sexual connotation.

HuffPost

What he said had a sexual connotation and it affected me badly.

The Guardian - Lifestyle

The persons saying it has a sexual connotation couldn't be further from the truth.

The New York Times - Magazine

I couldn't imagine a man onstage touching Mary's stomach without a sexual connotation".

The New York Times - Arts

"The smell of Nivea still has a sexual connotation for me".

The New Yorker

As for his product's name, Yau freely admitted that, in addition to the sports connection, it has a sexual connotation.

The Washington Post

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

33 human-written examples

Although to screw around still suggests promiscuity, the substitution of up for around obliterates any sexual connotation.

The New York Times - Magazine

There was – I didn't draw any sexual connotation or connection with that".

Wikipedia

It doesn't have to be a definite sexual connotation, or a homophobic connotation.

Los Angeles Times

Robbie Burns' poem "The Yellow, Yellow Yorlin'" gets its title from a Scottish name for the yellowhammer, which is given an obvious sexual connotation: I met a pretty maid, an' unto her I said,/ "I wad fain fin' your yellow, yellow yorlin'".

Wikipedia

There's also the similarity to Facebook's Poke feature, which had a creepy sexual connotation.

The New Yorker

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Consider the audience and the potential impact when using this phrase, as its sensitivity can vary greatly.

Common error

Avoid assuming that every ambiguous situation carries "a sexual connotation". Overusing this phrase can lead to misjudgments and offense.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "a sexual connotation" functions as a noun phrase, typically used as the object of a verb (e.g., 'has a sexual connotation') or as a complement, describing a quality or characteristic of something. Ludwig AI confirms its correct usage.

Expression frequency: Uncommon

Frequent in

News & Media

40%

Science

30%

Encyclopedias

10%

Less common in

Wiki

5%

Formal & Business

5%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "a sexual connotation" accurately describes something implying a sexual meaning or undertone. While grammatically sound and suitable for analytical contexts, its use requires sensitivity due to the potential for misinterpretation. Ludwig AI confirms its validity and the phrase can be found across diverse sources, predominantly in News & Media, Science, and Encyclopedias, indicating a formal or neutral tone. Alternative phrases like "a sexual overtone" or "a suggestive element" can offer similar meanings with subtle shifts in emphasis.

Alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

a sexual overtone

Focuses on a more subtle, underlying sexual quality.

a sexual implication

Highlights the idea of something being suggested or hinted at sexually.

a sexual undercurrent

Emphasizes a hidden or less obvious sexual aspect.

a suggestive element

Shifts away from direct sexuality to a more general sense of suggestion.

a lewd suggestion

Implies a crass or offensive sexual hint.

an erotic nuance

Focuses on a refined or aesthetic sexual quality.

More alternative expressions

a sexual direction

a sexual dimension

a sexual feeling

a sexual character

a neutral connotation

a sexual background

a sexual context

a sexual content

a sexual feel

a sexual element

a criminal connotation

a sexual depth

a sexual trait

a sexual smell

a sexual sense

a spiritual connotation

a sexual orientation

a sexual preference

a sexual abuse

a certain connotation

FAQs

How can I use "a sexual connotation" in a sentence?

You can use "a sexual connotation" to describe something that implies a sexual meaning, such as "The joke had "a sexual connotation" that made me uncomfortable".

What's the difference between "a sexual connotation" and "a sexual overtone"?

"A sexual connotation" refers to an implied sexual meaning, while "a sexual overtone" suggests a more noticeable, though still subtle, sexual quality.

What are some alternative ways to express "a sexual connotation"?

Alternatives include "a sexual implication", "a sexual undercurrent", or "a suggestive element", depending on the nuance you want to convey.

Is it always appropriate to point out when something has "a sexual connotation"?

No, it is not always appropriate. Consider the context, audience, and potential impact before pointing out that something has "a sexual connotation". Sensitivity and respect are key.