virility

USAGE SUMMARY

The word 'virility' is correct and usable in written English.
It is typically used to describe masculine qualities or strength, such as physical energy, courage, or sexual potency. Example sentence: His virility was apparent in the way he handled even the most difficult of tasks.

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Encyclopedias

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

59 human-written examples

The Mail's attack on his love life inadvertently became a ringing endorsement for his animal virility.

The Guardian

CONSERVATIVE Americans like to contrast the vigour and virility of their own country with the decadence and decline of Europe.

The Economist

It is a fallacy to see a strong currency as a symbol of economic virility (look at the Japanese yen).

The Economist

The tusk as a symbol of virility fits with observations by Inuit, who hunt narwhal for food.

The Economist

Meanwhile, the euro area's economies are on the mend, but are expected to grow by only 0.5% this year and 1.8% next, according to The Economist's monthly poll of economic forecasters.However, currencies are not economic virility symbols, but assets on which investors expect a return.

The Economist

Young men, many of whom might have joined the police or the army and have "a tormented relationship with their virility" are, she says, seduced by the promise of a mission and a purpose free of Western lies.

The Economist

But first it needs to regain its virility.

The Economist

The Spartans thought those who washed in hot water were on a slippery slope to sleeping late and losing their virility; the ancient Egyptians that the Greeks were foul for sitting in still water.

The Economist

The external surplus, at €188 billion ($243 billion), or 7% of GDP, is the world's biggest in absolute terms, one of the biggest relative to the size of the economy, and rising.The working partsIn German eyes, strong exports and a big trade surplus are symbols of economic virility.

The Economist

On November 13th José Manuel Barroso, the commission's president, struck a conciliatory note, but suggested that Germany could do more to support domestic demand, which would boost imports, by opening up its services sector.The commission's decision has made many Germans indignant but that is because, wrongly, they regard their surplus as a sign of their exporting virility.

The Economist

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

1 human-written examples

Similarly, he makes little mention of the new Islamist awareness among African Muslims.Sir Vidia's refusal to see the suppleness of Africa its musicality, violence and virility may strengthen the hand of critics who argue that his non-fiction (as opposed to his marvellous fiction) is misanthropic and out of touch.

The Economist

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "virility", consider the specific nuance you want to convey. It can refer to physical strength, reproductive capability, or general masculine vigor. Choose other words if you want to be more specific.

Common error

Avoid using "virility" solely to describe aggressiveness or dominance, as it primarily refers to masculine strength and reproductive capacity. Consider other terms like "assertiveness" or "leadership" if those are the qualities you wish to emphasize.

Linguistic Context

The word "virility" functions primarily as a noun, denoting the state or quality of being virile. It encompasses aspects of masculinity such as strength, energy, and reproductive capacity, as supported by Ludwig's examples.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

50%

Encyclopedias

20%

Science

15%

Less common in

Formal & Business

5%

Academia

5%

Reference

5%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "virility" is a noun denoting masculine strength, energy, and reproductive capability. Ludwig AI confirms its grammatical correctness and widespread use. While suitable for formal contexts, one must be mindful of its connotations. Common synonyms include "masculinity" and "potency". As shown in the examples from Ludwig, it appears most frequently in News & Media, encyclopedias and scientific contexts and its function is to describe masculine qualities or to emphasize them. Understanding its nuances ensures effective communication.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

masculinity

Refers more broadly to qualities associated with being male, while "virility" specifically emphasizes strength and reproductive capability.

potency

Focuses on the power or capacity to produce a particular effect, particularly regarding reproduction, a key element of "virility".

manliness

Highlights traits traditionally considered characteristic of men, overlapping with the broader concept of "virility".

vigor

Emphasizes physical strength and energy, a component of "virility" but less focused on reproductive ability.

sexual prowess

Specifically relates to sexual skill and ability, a more direct aspect of "virility".

reproductive capacity

Concentrates on the ability to procreate, which is a core aspect of "virility".

male strength

Highlights the physical power associated with being male, contributing to the concept of "virility".

masculine energy

Emphasizes the dynamic and active qualities associated with masculinity and "virility".

procreative power

Directly refers to the capacity to produce offspring, a key attribute of "virility".

male potency

Combines the concepts of maleness and the ability to produce a strong effect or offspring, closely related to "virility".

FAQs

How can I use "virility" in a sentence?

You can use "virility" to describe masculine qualities or strength. For example, "The athlete's "virility" was evident in his powerful performance." Or, "The king was concerned about maintaining the "virility" of his lineage."

What is the difference between "virility" and "masculinity"?

"Virility" specifically refers to masculine strength, energy, and reproductive capability, while "masculinity" is a broader term encompassing qualities and behaviors culturally associated with men.

What are some synonyms for "virility"?

Synonyms for "virility" include "manliness", "potency", "vigor", and "masculinity". The best choice depends on the specific context.

Is it appropriate to use "virility" in formal writing?

Yes, "virility" is appropriate in formal writing, especially when discussing masculine traits, historical contexts, or biological capacities. However, consider your audience and the potential connotations when using the term.