sexuality
B2Formal, academic, medical, everyday (in appropriate contexts)
Definition
Meaning
The quality of being sexual; capacity for sexual feelings; a person's sexual orientation or preference.
The expression of sexual interest, behavior, and identity; the cultural, social, and psychological aspects of being sexual.
Linguistics
Semantic Notes
Often refers to orientation (heterosexuality, homosexuality, etc.), but also encompasses broader aspects of sexual identity, expression, and desire. Can be used in both individual and collective senses.
Dialectal Variation
British vs American Usage
Differences
Minimal difference in core meaning. Slightly more common in UK academic/social discourse; US usage sometimes more associated with identity politics.
Connotations
Neutral in formal contexts; can carry political/ideological connotations in discussions of rights and identity.
Frequency
Similar frequency in both varieties.
Vocabulary
Collocations
Grammar
Valency Patterns
Noun + of + sexuality (the complexity of human sexuality)Adjective + sexuality (adolescent sexuality)Verb + about/regarding + sexuality (teach about sexuality)Vocabulary
Synonyms
Strong
Neutral
Weak
Vocabulary
Antonyms
Phrases
Idioms & Phrases
- “Coming to terms with one's sexuality”
- “A celebration of sexuality”
Usage
Context Usage
Business
Rare, except in HR/DEI contexts regarding inclusivity.
Academic
Common in psychology, sociology, gender studies, biology.
Everyday
Used in personal conversations about identity and relationships.
Technical
Used in medical, psychological, and sociological terminology.
Examples
By Part of Speech
verb
British English
- N/A
American English
- N/A
adverb
British English
- N/A
American English
- N/A
adjective
British English
- N/A
American English
- N/A
Examples
By CEFR Level
- He is learning about human sexuality in biology class.
- The film explores the sexuality of its main character in a sensitive way.
- Discussions about adolescent sexuality should be open and informed.
Learning
Memory Aids
Mnemonic
Think: SEX + U + ALITY = the state/quality of your (U) sexual being.
Conceptual Metaphor
Sexuality is a journey/exploration. Sexuality is a spectrum. Sexuality is a core part of identity.
Watch out
Common Pitfalls
Translation Traps (for Russian speakers)
- Do not confuse with 'сексуальность' (which primarily means 'sex appeal/sensuality' in Russian). The English 'sexuality' is broader. The direct translation 'сексуальность' is a false friend.
Common Mistakes
- Using 'sexuality' to mean only 'sexual activity' (it's broader). Confusing 'sexuality' with 'gender'. Using it as a countable noun (*'He has a sexuality') is odd; usually uncountable.
Practice
Quiz
Which phrase best describes the core meaning of 'sexuality'?
FAQ
Frequently Asked Questions
No. Gender refers to social, cultural, and psychological traits (man, woman, non-binary). Sexuality refers to sexual orientation, feelings, and identity (heterosexual, homosexual, bisexual, etc.).
Typically uncountable. We talk about 'human sexuality' or 'her sexuality', not 'a sexuality'. However, in discussing different types (e.g., 'sexualities'), it can be pluralized in academic contexts.
It is standard and can be used in both formal (academic, medical) and informal (personal) contexts when discussing the topic appropriately.
The Russian word 'сексуальность' primarily means 'sex appeal' or 'sensuality'. The English 'sexuality' is a broader, more neutral term for sexual orientation and identity, making them false friends.
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