make love

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "make love" is technically correct in written English, although it is usually used only in certain contexts.
For example, you might use it in a romantic poem or song lyric. Example: "We can make love all night, and never tire of one another."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Wiki

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

They make love.

The New Yorker

Or make love to.

The New York Times

"Or make love".

The New Yorker

Make love and war.

The New York Times - Magazine

Let's make love.

The New York Times - Arts

She can't make love.

The Guardian

Will they make love?

The New York Times

"I don't make love.

The Guardian - Film

"And I make love".

The New York Times - Magazine

They couldn't make love.

The Guardian

Sometimes they make love.

The Guardian - Books

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "make love" when you want to emphasize the emotional and intimate connection between partners, rather than just the physical act of sex.

Common error

While generally correct, "make love" can sound overly sentimental or euphemistic in formal or professional writing. Opt for more direct or clinical terms when appropriate.

Linguistic Context

Make love functions primarily as a verb phrase that serves as a euphemism for sexual intercourse. The phrase suggests a deeper emotional connection and intimacy, going beyond the purely physical act. Ludwig AI's analysis and usage examples confirm this semantic nuance.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

69%

Wiki

11%

Science

8%

Less common in

Formal & Business

3%

Academia

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "make love" is a grammatically sound and commonly used euphemism for sexual intercourse, generally implying intimacy and emotional connection. Ludwig AI identifies its primary function as a verb phrase with a communicative purpose of expressing affection and softening the discussion of sex. While considered correct, its register leans towards neutral to informal, making it less suitable for strictly formal contexts. The phrase is predominantly found in news and media, reflecting its broad cultural usage.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

have sexual intercourse

A direct and commonly understood synonym, devoid of euphemism.

be intimate with

Focuses on the emotional closeness associated with the act.

engage in sexual relations

This is a more formal and clinical way of describing the act of making love.

sleep with

An informal term implying intimacy but potentially less emotionally charged.

become one

A metaphorical way of describing the deep connection during lovemaking.

have a love affair

Implies a longer-term romantic involvement.

consummate the relationship

A formal expression, often used in the context of marriage.

get down

A very casual way to reference sexual activity.

copulate

A biological term for sexual union, lacking romantic connotation.

enjoy carnal knowledge

An archaic and euphemistic expression.

FAQs

What does "make love" mean?

To "make love" is a euphemistic expression for engaging in sexual intercourse, often implying intimacy and emotional connection.

What are some alternatives to "make love"?

Depending on the context, alternatives include "have sex", "be intimate", or "engage in sexual relations".

Is it appropriate to use "make love" in formal writing?

While grammatically correct, "make love" is generally more appropriate in creative or personal contexts. More direct or clinical terms may be better suited for formal writing.

What is the difference between "make love" and "have sex"?

"Make love" typically implies a deeper emotional connection and intimacy, while "have sex" is a more general term for sexual intercourse.