Definition and Meaning of ‘Sexual Relationship’
A sexual relationship (noun phrase) refers to a relationship between two people that includes sexual activity or sexual intimacy. It generally implies that the individuals are physically intimate in addition to any emotional or romantic connection. This term is often used in both formal and informal discussions about relationships, health, and social matters.
Pronunciation of ‘Sexual Relationship’
- IPA: /ˈsɛk.ʃu.əl rɪˈleɪ.ʃən.ʃɪp/
- Phonetic Spelling: SEK-shoo-uhl ri-LAY-shun-ship
Synonyms and Related Terms
- Physical relationship
- Intimate relationship
- Sexual involvement
- Sexual connection
- Sexual intimacy
- Romantic relationship (if includes sexual aspect)
- Consensual relationship (emphasizing agreement and consent)
Related Terms:
Sexual activity, Sexual intercourse, Sexual contact, Sexual partner, Romantic partner, Physical intimacy, Love affair
Grammatical Formation
- Part of Speech: Noun phrase
- Plural Form: Sexual relationships
- Typical Usage: Usually used with possessives or qualifiers, e.g., They had a sexual relationship, A healthy sexual relationship
Easy Explanation
A sexual relationship means two people are involved in a relationship where they have sexual contact or physical intimacy. It can happen in romantic relationships like marriage or dating, or sometimes outside of formal partnerships. It shows that the relationship is more than friendship — it includes sexual activity.
Common Collocations and Idiomatic Usage
- Have a sexual relationship
- Engage in a sexual relationship
- Sexual relationship with someone
- Consensual sexual relationship
- Healthy sexual relationship
- Casual sexual relationship
- Long-term sexual relationship
- Illicit sexual relationship (affair or secret relationship)
- Sexual relationship develops
Sample Sentences Using ‘Sexual Relationship’
- They had a sexual relationship that lasted several years.
- A healthy sexual relationship is often based on trust and consent.
- He admitted to having a sexual relationship with his coworker.
- The movie explores the complexities of a sexual relationship between two friends.
- They were engaged in a consensual sexual relationship.
- In some cultures, sexual relationships outside marriage are discouraged.
- The report found no evidence of a sexual relationship between the two parties.
Quick Reference Table
| Aspect | Details |
|---|---|
| Term | Sexual relationship |
| Part of Speech | Noun phrase |
| Pronunciation | /ˈsɛk.ʃu.əl rɪˈleɪ.ʃən.ʃɪp/ (SEK-shoo-uhl ri-LAY-shun-ship) |
| Meaning | A relationship that involves sexual activity or intimacy |
| Synonyms | Physical relationship, intimate relationship, sexual intimacy |
| Plural Form | Sexual relationships |
| Common Collocations | Have a sexual relationship, healthy sexual relationship, illicit sexual relationship |