Translation guide
The English word 'sexless' can refer to a lack of sexual activity, a lack of sexual desire, or a relationship without sex. In Japanese, the most common equivalent is セックスレス (sekkusuresu), a loanword widely used for sexless marriages. Other expressions depend on context, such as describing a person as asexual or a relationship as platonic.
Describing a relationship or marriage where sexual activity is absent or rare
a sexless marriage · their relationship became sexless
A loanword from English 'sexless', commonly used in Japanese to describe a marriage or relationship without sexual activity. Often used in the phrase セックスレス夫婦 (sekkusuresu fuufu, sexless couple).
うちはセックスレス夫婦です。
We are a sexless couple.
セックスレスが原因で離婚した。
We divorced because of a sexless marriage.
Literally 'there is no sex life'. A more direct, slightly clinical way to state the absence of sexual activity.
最近、性生活がまったくない。
Lately, we have no sex life at all.
Literally 'there is no married life', a euphemism for lack of sexual activity within marriage. Often used in counseling or serious discussions.
夫婦生活が何年もない。
We haven't had marital relations for years.
Describing a person who has no sexual feelings or desires, or something that lacks sexual attributes
an asexual person · feeling sexless
Asexuality as a sexual orientation. Often used in LGBTQ+ contexts. The person is 無性愛者 (museiaisha, asexual person).
彼は無性愛者だとカミングアウトした。
He came out as asexual.
Loanword from English 'asexual', commonly used in LGBTQ+ communities. More casual than 無性愛.
私はアセクシャルです。
I am asexual.
Literally 'have no sexual desire'. A straightforward description, not necessarily an identity.
彼は性的欲求がまったくないと言っている。
He says he has no sexual desire at all.
Describing a relationship or interaction that is non-sexual, purely friendly
a sexless friendship · a platonic bond
Loanword meaning 'platonic'. Used for relationships that are affectionate but not sexual.
私たちの関係はプラトニックです。
Our relationship is platonic.
Literally 'no physical relationship'. Used to clarify that a relationship is not sexual.
彼とは肉体関係がない。
I don't have a physical relationship with him.
セックスレス typically refers to a lack of sexual activity in a relationship, not a person's orientation. For asexuality, use 無性愛 or アセクシャル.
セックスレス is a common, somewhat euphemistic term often used in media and everyday conversation. 性生活がない is more direct and clinical, suitable for medical or serious personal discussions.