sexual intercourse

USAGE SUMMARY

The term "sexual intercourse" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it when talking about physical acts of sexual activity. Example sentence: "John and Mary engaged in sexual intercourse last night."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

57 human-written examples

Sexual intercourse took place".

Independent

Perhaps she had sexual intercourse?

The New Yorker

"I want sexual intercourse".

The New York Times - Books

Not sexual intercourse.

The New York Times

Sexual intercourse is not worth the risks".

The New Yorker

She's too old for sexual intercourse.

Independent

Here's one of them: having sexual intercourse.

The New Yorker

We had sexual intercourse Other golfers react.

The New Yorker

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

3 human-written examples

Your sexual intercourse-maker.

Vice

"Could they not use the literate 'sexual intercourse'?

Independent

Communion with the divine is here configured as sexual intercourse.

The Guardian

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When writing about sensitive topics, consider your audience and choose the most appropriate and respectful language. While "sexual intercourse" is a correct and usable term, alternatives like "sexual relations" or more descriptive terms might be preferable in certain contexts.

Common error

While being direct is often good, avoid using overly clinical or graphic terms when a more sensitive or euphemistic term would be more appropriate for your audience and the overall tone of your writing. Using phrases like "making love" or "intimate relations" might be better suited in certain situations.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "sexual intercourse" functions primarily as a noun phrase, referring to the physical act of coitus or genital-genital contact. Ludwig shows that it is used to describe instances of sexual activity, often in a factual or clinical manner.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

36%

Science

34%

Wiki

15%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

3%

Formal & Business

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "sexual intercourse" is a noun phrase used to describe the physical act of coitus. As Ludwig AI confirms, the phrase is grammatically correct and usable in written English, particularly in contexts requiring a formal or clinical tone. The phrase sees frequent use in news and media, scientific publications, and wikis. When you need to be precise and avoid euphemisms, "sexual intercourse" is the appropriate choice, though considering your audience and the context is crucial in deciding whether a more sensitive term might be more fitting.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

intercourse

A shorter version of the original phrase, but carries the same meaning.

coitus

This is a more clinical or formal term for sexual intercourse.

copulation

Similar to coitus, this term is also more formal and biological.

sexual relations

A broader term that can encompass various forms of sexual activity, including intercourse.

genital contact

A more descriptive and less euphemistic term, focusing on the physical act.

the sex act

A more clinical and detached way to refer to sexual intercourse.

carnal knowledge

An older, more literary term for sexual intercourse.

sexual congress

A formal and somewhat archaic term for sexual intercourse.

making love

This phrase is a more euphemistic and romantic way to refer to sexual intercourse.

intimate relations

A more general term that can refer to both sexual and emotional intimacy.

FAQs

What can I say instead of "sexual intercourse"?

You can use alternatives like "coitus", "copulation", "making love", or "sexual relations" depending on the context.

Is "sexual intercourse" a formal term?

Yes, "sexual intercourse" is considered a relatively formal and clinical term. More informal terms exist, but its formality makes it suitable for medical, scientific, or legal contexts.

When is it appropriate to use the term "sexual intercourse"?

It's appropriate to use "sexual intercourse" in medical, legal, or scientific contexts where a precise and unambiguous term is needed. Consider your audience when choosing between this term and more euphemistic alternatives.

Are there any negative connotations associated with the term "sexual intercourse"?

The term itself is neutral, but its formality can sometimes make it sound detached or clinical. In some contexts, this might be perceived negatively, especially if a more sensitive or romantic term is more appropriate.