nubile

USAGE SUMMARY

The word 'nubile' is a correct and usable word in written English.
The word 'nubile' refers to a young woman who is sexually mature and considered suitable for marriage or sexual relationships. It can also refer to something or someone that is suitable or ready for use or action. Example: The village elders had chosen a nubile young woman as the sacrificial offering to the gods. In this sentence, 'nubile' is used to describe the woman as being of appropriate age and readiness for marriage or sexual relationships.

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Encyclopedias

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

I mean, they all saw it because it made a lot of money - I think they recognised it as being a brilliant film - but I don't think they were very comfortable with it.' The success of American Beauty opened doors and she proceeded to corner a niche in nubile young women.

The Guardian - Film

American Beauty's questionable kiss features Kevin Spacey's 40-something character realising his fantasies surrounding his teenage daughter's nubile best friend.

The Guardian - Film

The press, pampered by a hugely efficient press office, devotes pages to it, especially if British interest remains intact into the second week, or if nubile young female players distinguish themselves, or behave scandalously, or threaten to behave scandalously (or all of the above).

The Economist

America has plenty of modestly talented nubile starlets already.

The Economist

Coupled with pictures of nubile flight attendants, the suggestive slogan fills newspapers all over stick-in-the-mud Singapore.

The Economist

Only quick thinking and bravery by the protagonist, the stalwart Tanel Rõuku (played by Sergo Vares), with his nubile and equally valiant wife Anna (played by Liisi Koikson) save the six-year-old Estonian republic from disaster.

The Economist

Galen's crusty aunt and nubile teenage cousin drift in and out of their lives and Galen's fantasies.

The Economist

Some are nubile, others more voluptuous and visibly fecund.

The Economist

There is a soft-porn perversity about many of Fuseli's muscular super-heroes and nubile nymphs, particularly his Titania from "A Midsummer Night's Dream".

The Economist

A third suggested, only half-jokingly, that Mr Kaczyński ought to get the nubile twins who recorded Mr Napieralski's upbeat campaign song to perform "for a fellow twin".

The Economist

Not by submitting to the embraces of an old dude round the back of the Temple of Hephaistos, for sure, nor by going off and tupping the nubile ancilla.

Independent

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Consider the context carefully before using "nubile", as it can be perceived as objectifying or outdated. Opt for more neutral or descriptive terms like "young" or "attractive" unless the specific nuance is intended.

Common error

Avoid using the word "nubile" in formal or professional settings, as it carries strong sexual connotations. Choose more appropriate terms like "young", "new", or "inexperienced" depending on the context.

Linguistic Context

The word "nubile" functions primarily as an adjective modifying a noun (typically a woman). As Ludwig AI confirms, it describes someone young and sexually mature, often implying suitability for marriage. It can also function as a noun, referring to a young sexually attractive woman.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

69%

Encyclopedias

3%

Science

28%

Less common in

Formal & Business

0%

Wiki

0%

Academia

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The word "nubile" functions primarily as an adjective, describing a young woman considered sexually mature and suitable for marriage. Ludwig AI confirms its grammatical correctness, but its usage raises contextual considerations. While examples from Ludwig show it appearing frequently in news and media, its connotations can be objectifying. Alternatives like "young", "attractive", or "marriageable" may be more appropriate depending on the context. Use "nubile" with caution, recognizing its potential for misinterpretation and offense.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

marriageable young woman

Focuses specifically on the eligibility for marriage rather than sexual attractiveness.

young woman of marriageable age

Emphasizes age and suitability for marriage in a more descriptive way.

sexually mature young woman

Highlights the sexual maturity aspect, removing the implication of marriageability.

attractive young woman

A more general term, focusing on physical appeal without specific reference to age or maturity.

eligible young woman

Similar to marriageable, but can also refer to eligibility in other contexts, such as for a specific role or opportunity.

young and attractive woman

Combines youth and attractiveness, but is less specific than "nubile".

youthful beauty

Shifts the focus from marriageability to the aesthetic quality of youth.

blooming young woman

Uses a metaphor to describe a young woman at the peak of her youth and attractiveness.

fair young woman

Emphasizes beauty and youth in a more traditional or poetic way.

fresh young woman

Highlights the youth and vitality of the woman, suggesting innocence and newness.

FAQs

How can I use "nubile" in a sentence?

While grammatically correct, "nubile" is often considered outdated or even offensive. It's best to reserve its use for specific contexts where the emphasis on youth and sexual maturity is both relevant and acceptable. Otherwise, consider more neutral alternatives.

What can I say instead of "nubile"?

Depending on the context, you could use alternatives like "young", "attractive", "marriageable", or "youthful". The best choice depends on the specific nuance you want to convey.

Is it okay to describe someone as "nubile"?

Describing someone as "nubile" can be interpreted as objectifying, as it focuses on sexual maturity. Consider whether this emphasis is necessary or appropriate for your audience and purpose. In many cases, more neutral terms will be preferable.

What is the difference between "nubile" and "young"?

"Young" is a general descriptor of age, while "nubile" specifically refers to a young woman who is sexually mature and considered suitable for marriage. "Nubile" carries stronger sexual connotations and may be considered outdated or offensive in certain contexts.