intimacy

USAGE SUMMARY

The word 'intimacy' is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it to describe a close, affectionate relationship between two people, or to describe a feeling of closeness and understanding. For example, "The couple shared a deep sense of intimacy, connecting on a level few couples can experience."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Formal & Business

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

But with cabinet ministers, Labour MPs and Lib Dem activists all warning against excess Lib-Lab intimacy, that may prove a forlorn hope.

The Guardian

It's an excellent wee theatre, Milton Keynes, and not just because the authorities there are civilised enough to allow you to imbibe; a 1400-seater auditorium with a pit big enough to take a large orchestra (Welsh National Opera have toured Wozzeck here in the past), but with a Glyndebourne-esque sense of intimacy and immediacy.

The Guardian - Music

She is fascinated by the intimacy and frailty of human relations, and tries not to categorise or define those experiences.

The Guardian - Film

Blair told Leveson he and Rupert Murdoch had just such a relationship while he was PM, but that once he left office it suddenly blossomed into intimacy.

The Guardian - Lifestyle

You're Not Alone tackles his sense of isolation and problems with intimacy.

The Guardian

I'm not saying that similar kinds of intimacy can't be achieved in monogamous relationships; just that lots of poly people find the emphasis on honest, non-judgmental emotional communication a marked change from their previous experiences.

The Guardian - Lifestyle

The sudden and unexpected failure of the body is a shocking catastrophe that threatens the flimsy edifice we call the "self", with a corresponding strain on intimacy.

The Guardian

I am still in awe of the Edinburgh Book festival, even after all these years, because without losing any of its intimacy, without seeming too commercial or, I might say, "over organised" it has grown and grown and is the biggest, best-known celebration of books in the world, and yet it still fits within the wrought iron fencing.

The Guardian - Books

I like the intimacy of Broadstairs, the brashness of Scarborough - but for the perfect all-round charming resort, Tenby has to be firmly placed at the top of my list.

The Guardian - Travel

That intimacy ended after the tripartite model of economic management – government, business and unions – fatally hit the buffers in the winter of discontent (the piles of rubbish much exaggerated in The Iron Lady movie) and led to the Thatcher counter-revolution of 1979, which culminated in the defeat of Arthur Scargill's foolhardy strategy for the 1983-84 minerstrikeike.

The Guardian

Few people who know us as a couple realise that, for most of our long marriage, we have had no intimacy whatsoever; we have slept apart and existed apart for most of those years.

The Guardian - Lifestyle

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "intimacy" to describe both emotional and physical closeness, but be mindful of the context to avoid unintended interpretations.

Common error

While "intimacy" is appropriate in personal and social contexts, using it too frequently in formal or professional settings can sound awkward or overly personal. Opt for terms like "closeness", "rapport", or "connection" in business or academic writing.

Linguistic Context

The noun "intimacy" primarily functions to denote a state of close familiarity, affection, and often vulnerability between individuals or within relationships. Ludwig AI confirms its correct usage across various contexts. Example: "She is fascinated by the intimacy and frailty of human relations."

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

38%

Formal & Business

20%

Science

18%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

8%

Wiki

8%

Reference

8%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "intimacy" is a versatile noun used to describe close, personal relationships and connections. As Ludwig AI confirms, it is grammatically correct and widely used, particularly in news, formal business, and scientific contexts. While its use in more formal settings requires careful consideration of tone, it generally conveys a sense of deep connection and understanding. Related phrases such as "close relationship" and "deep connection" offer alternative ways to express similar ideas, and users should be mindful of common errors like overuse in formal contexts. The frequency of "intimacy" is very common, suggesting it's a term you'll encounter and use frequently in various forms of writing.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

close relationship

Focuses on the relational aspect, emphasizing the bond between individuals.

deep connection

Highlights the profound emotional or spiritual link between individuals.

personal closeness

Emphasizes the individual's experience of nearness and connection.

affectionate bond

Highlights the loving and caring nature of the connection.

emotional rapport

Focuses on the shared understanding and empathy between individuals.

familiar relationship

Emphasizes the state of knowing someone well and feeling comfortable with them.

inner circle

Refers to a group of people with whom one shares a high degree of trust and confidence.

private life

Focuses on the aspects of one's life that are kept away from public view, often involving close relationships.

secret affections

Emphasizes hidden or unacknowledged feelings of love and attachment.

sexual relationship

Specifically denotes a physical and emotional connection with a romantic nature

FAQs

How can I use "intimacy" in a sentence?

You can use "intimacy" to describe a feeling of closeness between people, as in, "They shared a deep sense of intimacy". It can also refer to a private or personal matter.

What are some synonyms for "intimacy"?

Alternatives to "intimacy" include "closeness", "familiarity", "rapport", and "affection" depending on the specific nuance you want to convey.

Is "intimacy" always related to sexual relationships?

No, "intimacy" is not always related to sexual relationships. It can refer to emotional, intellectual, or spiritual closeness as well. It can also refer to a private or personal matter. A good example of non-sexual intimacy would be friendships.

What is the difference between "intimacy" and "closeness"?

"Intimacy" suggests a deeper level of connection and understanding than simple "closeness". While "closeness" can refer to physical proximity or superficial connection, "intimacy" implies a vulnerability and emotional bond.