B1noun1K

Sex

UK /["/seks/"]/US /["/seks/"]/

Definition

the state of being male or female

In simple words: The biological difference between male and female, or a term for sexual activity.

Examples

  • Many animals display different behaviors during sex.
  • Sex education is important to help young people understand their bodies.
  • In many cultures, the act of sex is considered sacred.
  • The film explores the theme of love and sex in modern relationships.
  • Some people identify as having a different sex than the one assigned at birth.
  • Sex can be a complex topic due to societal norms and personal beliefs.
  • The difference in sex roles can vary significantly across cultures.
  • Sex appeal is often used in advertising to attract customers.

Usage notes

The word can refer to biological characteristics or sexual activities. In formal contexts, it often refers to biological differences, while in informal contexts, it may refer to sexual activity. Be cautious using it in sensitive discussions.

Grammar pattern

standalone noun

Memory hint

Think of 'sex' as 'two sides of a coin' – male and female.

Collocations

  • female
  • male
  • opposite
  • determine
  • change
  • be attracted to
  • change
  • equality
  • discrimination
  • between the sexes
  • the battle of the sexes
  • equality between the sexes
  • equality of the sexes
  • female
  • male
  • opposite
  • determine
  • change
  • be attracted to
  • change
  • equality
  • discrimination
  • between the sexes
  • the battle of the sexes
  • equality between the sexes
  • equality of the sexes
  • anal
  • oral
  • penetrative
  • engage in
  • have
  • consent to
  • life
  • drive
  • urge
  • sex between
  • sex with
  • sex, drugs and rock ’n’ roll
  • sex and violence
  • sex outside of marriage

Synonyms

  • gender
  • sexual intercourse
  • coitus
  • mating
  • procreation

Antonyms

  • chastity
  • abstinence

Common mistakes

  • Confused with 'gender', which refers to social roles, not biological differences.
  • Using it in formal writing where more specific language is needed.
  • Overgeneralizing it to only mean sexual activity, ignoring its biological meaning.