heterosexuality
Học thuậtThân thiện
Definition
- Noun:
- A sexual orientation characterized by a primary or exclusive romantic and sexual attraction to persons of the opposite sex. This term describes the pattern of emotional, romantic, and/or physical attraction an individual experiences.
Usage
- The term is used in psychological, sociological, and general contexts to describe a sexual orientation.
- It is often discussed in contrast to or alongside other orientations, such as homosexuality or bisexuality.
- It can be used in both clinical and everyday language.
Examples
- Noun:
- His heterosexuality was never a topic of discussion, as it was simply assumed by his family.
- The study aimed to understand the development of sexual identity, including heterosexuality.
- She spoke openly about her heterosexuality during the interview.
Advanced Usage
- "Compulsory heterosexuality": A concept describing the societal pressure and assumption that heterosexuality is the default, natural, or superior sexual orientation.
- The author's work critiques the effects of compulsory heterosexuality on women's choices.
Variants and Related Words
Heterosexual (adj/n): Having or involving a sexual attraction to people of the opposite sex. As a noun, a person who is heterosexual.
- They are in a heterosexual relationship. (adj)
- He is a heterosexual. (n)
Heteronormativity (n): The worldview that promotes heterosexuality as the normal or preferred sexual orientation.
- The policy was criticized for reinforcing heteronormativity.
Synonyms
- Straightness (informal): Often used colloquially as a synonym for heterosexuality.
- Opposite-sex attraction: A more descriptive, clinical phrase.
Related Phrases
- "To be heterosexual": The common verbal phrase to state one's orientation.
- He realized he was heterosexual during his teenage years.
Noun
- a sexual attraction to (or sexual relations with) persons of the opposite sex