Translation guide
The English word "sex" has two main meanings: biological sex (male/female) and sexual activity. These are expressed with different words in Japanese. This guide helps learners choose the right term based on context.
Referring to whether a person or animal is male or female, often in formal or medical contexts.
The standard, neutral word for 'sex' as a category (male/female). Used in forms, surveys, and everyday conversation.
Please tell me your sex.
There is a field to fill in your sex on this form.
Often used in compounds or formal contexts, such as 'same-sex' or 'sex discrimination'. Can sound technical alone.
Literally 'male and female', used to refer to sex in a binary sense, often in phrases like '男女平等' (gender equality).
Referring to the act of sex, sexual intercourse, or sexual relations.
The most common and direct loanword for 'sex' as an activity. Used in casual and formal contexts, but can be blunt.
They talk openly about sex.
Formal or clinical term for 'sexual intercourse'. Used in legal, medical, or educational contexts.
Technical/medical term for 'sexual intercourse'. Rare in everyday speech.
Casual, euphemistic way to say 'have sex'. Common in informal conversation. Can be used as a verb (する) or noun (エッチ).
I had sex with my boyfriend yesterday.
Literally 'have a physical relationship', a euphemism for having sex. Somewhat formal or indirect.
Referring to sex education, discussions about sex, or the concept of sexuality.
性別 (seibetsu) means biological sex (male/female). セックス (sekkusu) means sexual activity. Using セックス on a form to ask for someone's sex would be inappropriate and confusing.
Sex: Male/Female
セックス is the most common and neutral in everyday speech. 性行為 is formal and used in official contexts. 性交 is technical/medical and rarely used in conversation.
Discrimination based on sex is not permitted.
We hire regardless of sex.
Sex is one way of expressing love.
Be careful of sexually transmitted infections.
性交渉を持つ前に同意を確認することが大切です。
It's important to confirm consent before having sexual intercourse.
I don't have a sexual relationship with her.
It's difficult to talk about sex.