What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
sex
Example
The doctor explained the differences between male and female sex organs. [sex: noun]
Example
They had sex last night. [sex: noun]
Example
Sex is a natural process for reproduction. [sex: noun]
copulation
Example
The copulation of the two animals was observed by the researchers. [copulation: noun]
Example
The textbook described the process of copulation in detail. [copulation: noun]
Example
Copulation is an essential part of the reproductive cycle. [copulation: noun]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Sex is a more common and versatile term used in everyday language, while copulation is more technical and scientific and less commonly used in everyday language.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between sex and copulation?
Copulation has a more clinical and formal connotation than sex, which is a neutral term that can be used in various contexts.
