What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
intersex
Example
Intersex individuals face unique challenges related to their physical sex characteristics. [intersex: adjective]
Example
The doctor diagnosed the baby with intersex traits and recommended further testing. [intersex: noun]
intersexual
Example
The athlete was disqualified from the competition due to being intersexual. [intersexual: adjective]
Example
The doctor explained the complexities of intersexual development to the patient. [intersexual: noun]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Intersex is more commonly used than intersexual in everyday language and is considered a more neutral term.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between intersex and intersexual?
Both intersex and intersexual are formal terms used in medical and scientific contexts.
