intercourse

USAGE SUMMARY

The word "intercourse" is correct and usable in written English.
It is typically used in a metaphorical or figurative sense to mean communication and exchange between two or more individuals. For example, "The two sides began a dialogue that marked the start of a fruitful intercourse".

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

The study also found that among women who were high-adherers (who used the gel over 80% of the time before and after intercourse) HIV infections dropped by 54%.

The Guardian

Second, Kanye West replied to this selfie by suggesting that he would imminently have sexual intercourse with her.

The Guardian - Tech

Section 377 of the Malaysian penal code, which criminalises "carnal intercourse against the order of nature" is a relic of the country's days as a British colony.

The Guardian

Prosecutors said Maglio had admitted spiking the victim's drink with a sedative and having intercourse with her.

The Guardian

Skyrim is a computer game set in the mythical world of Tamriel, where human intercourse consists of fighting, stealing, magic and trade.

The Guardian - Opinion

While some analysis includes allusions to homosexual intercourse, Kabbalism and tantrism, it has also been proposed that, for once, Duchamp made a work about the joys of marriage.

The Guardian - Arts

Ringland also admitted six charges of unlawful intercourse with a child and one of internet grooming.

The Guardian - Tech

Parker says the couple were not engaged in intercourse when he arrived on the scene, but insists he was right to pursue inquiries.

The Guardian - Film

Girls are widely expected to marry upon reaching puberty, meaning that adolescents face cultural pressure to have intercourse without protection, and to experience regular pregnancies.

The Guardian

Do you want West to imminently have sexual intercourse with you?

The Guardian - Tech

Unlike lots of research, studies of faking orgasms have been consistent in their findings since the 1970s, showing rates of 53-65% – mostly for what researchers call PVI (penile-vaginal intercourse).

The Guardian - Lifestyle

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

In contemporary usage, "intercourse" can sometimes sound overly formal or clinical when referring to sexual activity. Choose synonyms like "sexual relations" or "sexual activity" for a more modern tone, depending on the intended audience and purpose.

Common error

Avoid using "intercourse" in casual conversation or informal writing where it might sound stilted or create unintended humor. In contexts where clarity is crucial, substitute with more direct and accessible language to prevent misinterpretation.

Linguistic Context

The primary grammatical function of "intercourse" is as a noun. It denotes a form of interaction or connection, whether physical (sexual intercourse) or abstract (social or cultural intercourse). Ludwig AI validates its accurate and common use in English writing.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

60%

Science

20%

Formal & Business

10%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

5%

Wiki

3%

Social Media

2%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the term "intercourse" is a versatile noun that can refer to both sexual activity and various forms of social interaction. While grammatically correct and commonly used, it carries a formal tone and should be used thoughtfully to avoid ambiguity or unintended connotations. According to Ludwig AI, "intercourse" is correct and usable in written English, often used metaphorically to mean communication and exchange. Remember to consider the context and audience when choosing this word, and explore synonyms like "sexual relations" or "communication" for greater clarity. As supported by the many real-world examples found on Ludwig, "intercourse" appears most frequently in news and media sources, suggesting its prevalence in formal and objective reporting.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

sexual relations

Focuses specifically on the sexual aspect of intercourse.

sexual activity

A broader term encompassing various forms of sexual engagement.

coitus

A more formal and clinical term for sexual intercourse.

copulation

Another formal term, often used in biological or scientific contexts.

carnal knowledge

A legal and somewhat archaic term for sexual intercourse.

sexual congress

A formal and less common synonym for sexual intercourse.

social interaction

Refers to communication and engagement between individuals in a social setting.

communication

Emphasizes the exchange of information and ideas.

dealings

Highlights interactions and transactions between parties.

commerce

Focuses on trade and business interactions.

FAQs

How can I use "intercourse" in a sentence?

"Intercourse" can refer to sexual activity or social interaction. For example, "They engaged in sexual intercourse" or "The cultural intercourse between the two nations was beneficial".

What are some synonyms for "intercourse" when referring to sex?

Alternatives include "sexual relations", "sexual activity", or "coitus" depending on the context and formality.

What's the difference between "intercourse" and "communication"?

While "intercourse" can refer to general interaction, "communication" specifically denotes the exchange of information, ideas, or feelings. "Intercourse" can encompass broader interactions, not just communicative ones.

Is "intercourse" a formal or informal term?

"Intercourse" is generally considered a formal term. In casual contexts, words like "communication" or "interaction" might be more appropriate for general discussions. When referring to sexual activity, more explicit or modern terms are often preferred.