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
Sexual health education is important for young adults. [sex: adjective]
Example
They had sex last night. [sex: noun]
intercourse
Example
They engaged in sexual intercourse for the first time. [intercourse: noun]
Example
The two countries had a fruitful intercourse of ideas and culture. [intercourse: noun]
Example
He had a pleasant social intercourse with his colleagues at the party. [intercourse: noun]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Sex is more commonly used than intercourse in everyday language, as it is a more versatile term that covers a wider range of contexts.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between sex and intercourse?
Interourse is more formal and clinical than sex, which can be used in more casual contexts. Therefore, interourse is more appropriate in formal or technical settings, while sex is more suitable for informal or personal conversations.
