lose virginity

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "lose virginity" is correct and usable in written English.
It is typically used to refer to the first experience of sexual intercourse. Example: "Many people have different feelings about the moment they lose their virginity, and it can be a significant event in their lives."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

3 human-written examples

"Lose Virginity" is another, and they add up to a familiar arc of recklessness, redemption and regret.

The New York Times

Man also doesn't lose virginity until age 30 when it's with a strange, small woman he paid $50 in a park.

TechCrunch

The moment that we lose virginity is evocative, full of expectation and ripe for the picking in terms of memory and recollection.

Huffington Post

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

57 human-written examples

A snipped curl came to stand for lost virginity.

The New York Times

Or shall I tell them that in my spare time, I interview British people about the experience of losing virginity?

Huffington Post

Some of you will lose your virginity, and one of you will lose your same sex virginity..

The Guardian

And lose his virginity, of course.

The Guardian - Books

Why didn't you lose your virginity to me?

The New Yorker

They start drinking and lose their virginity sooner.

The New York Times - Magazine

'Horse-riding makes you lose your virginity," Melissa Cable* warned me.

The Guardian - Opinion

Some lose their virginity; others think about it.

The New York Times - Arts

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Consider the context and audience when using the phrase "lose virginity", as it can be sensitive or carry different connotations for different people. Opt for more neutral language like "become sexually active" when appropriate.

Common error

Avoid using judgmental or moralizing language when discussing the topic. Terms like "giving away" or "wasting" virginity can be stigmatizing. Instead, use neutral and respectful language.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "lose virginity" functions as a verb phrase, where "lose" is the verb and "virginity" is the direct object. As Ludwig AI explains, this phrase describes the act of experiencing sexual intercourse for the first time.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

100%

Less common in

Science

0%

Formal & Business

0%

Wiki

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "lose virginity" is a common way to describe the experience of first sexual intercourse. While grammatically correct and widely understood, its use can be sensitive due to its implications about virginity as something that can be lost. Ludwig AI confirms its usability in written English. As Ludwig's examples show, the phrase appears frequently in News & Media. When writing or speaking about this topic, consider your audience and choose language that is respectful and appropriate, perhaps opting for alternatives like "become sexually active" or "have first sexual experience" when a more neutral tone is desired.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

Experience first intercourse

More formal and clinical alternative, focusing on the act itself.

Have first sexual encounter

More inclusive and avoids specific gendered language.

Have sexual debut

Emphasizes the first-time nature of the experience, sounding slightly elevated.

Give away one's virginity

Highlights the voluntary aspect of the action.

Part with virginity

Neutral phrasing, focusing on the act of relinquishing virginity.

Become sexually active

Broader term indicating the start of sexual activity, not necessarily the very first time.

Relinquish virginity

Formal and emphasizes the act of giving up something.

Yield one's virginity

Formal and somewhat antiquated, suggesting surrender.

Deflower

Archaic and potentially offensive, implies a loss of innocence.

Shed one's innocence

Figurative and implies a broader transformation beyond the physical act.

FAQs

What does "lose virginity" mean?

The phrase "lose virginity" refers to the first time a person engages in sexual intercourse. While widely used, some find the term problematic due to its implication that virginity is something that can be lost.

Is it correct to say "lose virginity"?

Yes, the phrase "lose virginity" is grammatically correct and widely understood, though alternative phrases like "become sexually active" are sometimes preferred for their neutral tone.

What are some alternatives to "lose virginity"?

Depending on the context, you could use phrases such as "have first sexual experience", "become sexually active", or "experience first intercourse". The best choice depends on the desired level of formality and sensitivity.

Why is the term "lose virginity" sometimes considered problematic?

Some consider the term "lose virginity" problematic because it implies that virginity is a valuable object that can be lost or damaged. More neutral terms avoid this implication and focus on the experience itself.