Definition

1. Noun:
   • A relationship involving sexual intimacy: A connection or association between two or more people that includes sexual activity and physical intimacy as a core component.

Usage

• This term is used to describe a consensual interpersonal connection where sexual activity is a defining feature. It implies an ongoing, mutual involvement beyond a single encounter.
• It is a formal and neutral term, suitable for academic, medical, legal, and general descriptive contexts.

Examples

• Noun:
  • Their sexual relationship began after they had been dating for several months.
  • The therapist asked about the history of their sexual relationship.
  • The study examines the correlation between communication and satisfaction in a long-term sexual relationship.

Advanced Usage

• "To be in a sexual relationship with someone": To be currently engaged in an intimate partnership involving sex.
  • He is in a sexual relationship with his colleague.
• "To have a sexual relationship": To engage in or to have engaged in such a partnership.
  • They had a sexual relationship years before they became business partners.

Variants and Related Words

• Relationship (n): The way in which two or more people are connected. A broader term that can be romantic, familial, professional, etc.
• Sexual (adj): Relating to sex, sexual attraction, or sexual activity.
• Romantic relationship (n): A relationship characterized by romance and emotional intimacy, which may or may not include a sexual component.
• Physical relationship (n): A relationship emphasizing physical contact and intimacy, often used as a synonym for .

Synonyms

• Intimate relationship: A close, personal association that often implies emotional and physical closeness, including sexuality.
• Sexual partnership: Emphasizes the collaborative and consensual nature of the relationship.
• Physical involvement: A more indirect phrase focusing on the act of physical intimacy.

Antonyms

• Platonic relationship: A close friendship without sexual activity or romantic feelings.
• Celibate relationship: A partnership where the individuals abstain from sexual activity.

Related Phrases

• Consensual sexual relationship: A relationship where all parties willingly agree to participate, emphasizing legal and ethical validity.
  • The university's policy strictly defines the boundaries of a consensual sexual relationship between students and faculty.
• Extramarital sexual relationship: A sexual relationship outside of a marriage.
  • The scandal involved an extramarital sexual relationship.

Noun

1. a relationship involving sexual intimacy