Translation guide
The act of sexual intercourse, typically between animals or in a biological context. In Japanese, the most common and neutral term is 交尾 (こうび), but other expressions exist depending on formality and context.
To refer to the act of sexual intercourse between animals, especially in biological or zoological contexts.
The dogs are copulating.
When mating season arrives, males start looking for females.
A more technical or formal term for copulation, often used in biology. Can also refer to sexual intercourse in a broader sense.
We observed the copulatory behavior of insects.
Refers to mating or breeding, often in the context of animal husbandry or controlled breeding. Not typically used for spontaneous copulation in the wild.
This dog was selected for breeding.
To refer to human sexual intercourse in a formal, clinical, or biological context.
The standard clinical term for sexual intercourse between humans. Used in medical, legal, and formal contexts.
There are diseases transmitted through sexual intercourse.
Can be used for humans in very formal or biological texts, but 性交 is more common.
To refer to sexual intercourse in casual conversation or using euphemisms. Note: These are not direct translations of 'copulation' but are common ways to express the concept.
The most common and neutral way to say 'have sex' in Japanese. A loanword from English.
They had sex.
A euphemistic and slightly childish way to say 'have sex'. Derived from the letter 'H'. Common in casual speech.
I had sex with my girlfriend yesterday.
A very casual and somewhat crude verb meaning 'to do' or 'to have sex'. Used primarily by men.
Can sound vulgar or disrespectful. Avoid in polite conversation.
交尾 (こうび) is used for animals, while 性交 (せいこう) is used for humans in formal contexts. Using 交尾 for humans can sound dehumanizing or humorous.
dog copulation
human sexual intercourse
The English word 'copulation' is formal and often used for animals. In casual human contexts, Japanese speakers use セックスする or エッチする. Using 交尾 for humans can be offensive or comical.
人間の交接は複雑な社会的意味を持つ。
Human copulation carries complex social meanings.
I want to have sex with that woman.