external genitalia

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "external genitalia" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used in medical, biological, or educational contexts when referring to the reproductive organs located outside the body. Example: "The external genitalia play a crucial role in human reproduction and sexual health."

✓ Grammatically correct

Science

Encyclopedias

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

The external genitalia simultaneously change.

Encyclopedia Britannica

Vulvitis, inflammation and infection of the vulva the external genitalia of the female.

Encyclopedia Britannica

Changes in the external genitalia are similar to those in the vagina.

Encyclopedia Britannica

Without it, the external genitalia appear similar to a female clitoris and labia.

Independent

These individuals have testes, but their genital ducts and external genitalia are female.

Encyclopedia Britannica

FGM varies from the the cutting the clitoris in some countries, such as Kurdistan, to removing all the external genitalia.

The Guardian

In males at puberty the testes enlarge and become active, the external genitalia enlarge, and the capacity to ejaculate develops.

Encyclopedia Britannica

Both the internal and the external genitalia are infantile, and the ovaries are only "streaks" of connective tissue.

Encyclopedia Britannica

The internal iliac vein drains the pelvic walls, viscera, external genitalia, buttocks, and a portion of the thigh.

Encyclopedia Britannica

In humans, conditions that involve discrepancies between external genitalia and internal reproductive organs are described by the term intersex.

Encyclopedia Britannica

Open image in new window Fig. 12 External genitalia formation.

Insights into Imaging

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

In medical and scientific writing, use "external genitalia" to ensure precision and clarity when referring specifically to the external reproductive organs.

Common error

Avoid using "external genitalia" when the context requires referring to both internal and external reproductive organs. In such cases, use broader terms like "genitalia" or "reproductive organs" to encompass all relevant structures.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "external genitalia" functions primarily as a noun phrase. It serves to identify and categorize specific anatomical structures located outside the body that are associated with reproduction and sexual function. Ludwig shows its usage across diverse contexts.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

Science

48%

Encyclopedias

15%

News & Media

13%

Less common in

Wiki

4%

Formal & Business

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "external genitalia" is a grammatically correct and frequently used term in formal and scientific contexts to refer to the external reproductive organs. Ludwig AI confirms its acceptability and common usage. While precise, it's advisable to use less technical alternatives like "genital area" or "private parts" for general audiences. Key considerations include avoiding confusion with internal organs and ensuring the appropriate level of formality in writing. With a high source quality score and a significant presence in scientific and encyclopedic resources, understanding and using this term effectively is crucial in relevant fields.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

outer genitalia

Emphasizes the external aspect, similar to the original phrase, but uses "outer" instead of "external".

genital organs

Broader term encompassing both internal and external reproductive structures, but can be used when the distinction isn't crucial.

pudendum

A more technical, anatomical term primarily used for the female external genitalia.

vulva

Specifically refers to the female external genitalia, excluding male anatomy.

genital area

A more general term referring to the region where the genitalia are located.

reproductive organs

A broad term that includes both internal and external organs involved in reproduction.

sexual organs

Similar to reproductive organs, but with a focus on sexual function.

private parts

An informal and euphemistic term for the genitalia.

groin region

Refers to the general area of the body where the genitalia are located, but not specifically the organs themselves.

urogenital region

Refers to the area encompassing both the urinary and genital systems.

FAQs

How do I use "external genitalia" in a sentence?

You can use "external genitalia" in sentences such as, "The examination revealed no abnormalities of the "external genitalia"" or "The development of the "external genitalia" is influenced by hormones".

What are some less technical alternatives to "external genitalia"?

Depending on the context, you can use less technical alternatives such as "genital area", "private parts" (informal), or "outer genitalia".

Is "external genitalia" a formal term?

Yes, "external genitalia" is considered a formal term, primarily used in medical, scientific, and educational contexts. In casual conversation, it's more common to use terms like "genital area" or "private parts".

What is the difference between "external genitalia" and "internal genitalia"?

"External genitalia" refers to the reproductive organs located outside the body, such as the vulva and penis. "Internal genitalia", on the other hand, refers to the reproductive organs located inside the body, such as the uterus and ovaries in females, and the testes in males.