Which one should you use?
While 愛し合う serves as a poetic way to describe the act, other terms vary in tone. セックスする is a more direct and blunt way to describe the act than the poetic 愛し合う, and エッチする is a playful phrase used among friends and couples to indicate intimacy in a lighthearted way. Additionally, the verb 寝る, which literally means 'to sleep', can be used in informal contexts to imply engaging in sexual activities.
Is there a formal and an informal way to say it?
For formal or medical discussions, you might use 性交 to refer to sexual intercourse in a neutral way or 肉体関係をもつ to describe 'having a physical relationship'. To indicate a deep emotional and physical connection in formal situations, the phrase 愛を交わす ('to exchange love') is used. In casual settings, セックスする is the most commonly used informal expression, while エッチする is playful and 寝る is used in an informal context to imply engaging in sexual activities.
How do you pronounce it?
aishiau
Did you know?
- The playful term エッチする is derived from the pronunciation of the English letter 'H', which in Japanese stands for 'hentai', a word that can mean 'pervert' or 'transformation' depending on the context.
- The word 愛 in 愛し合う was historically rare in spoken Japanese and was largely introduced as a translation for the Western concept of 'love'.
- In Japanese poetry and lyrics, the act is often alluded to through images of 'crossing pillows' or 'intertwined sleeves' rather than using a direct verb like 愛し合う.
Examples in context
- 昨日、彼とセックスした。Yesterday, I had sex with him.
- エッチしない？Shall we make love?
Example conversation
A couple is talking privately in their bedroom.
- 陽葵 Himari健太、今夜はゆっくり愛し合いたいな。Kenta, konya wa yukkuri aishiaitai na.Kenta, I want to make love slowly tonight.
- 健太 Kenta僕も同じ気持ちだよ、陽葵。Boku mo onaji kimochi dayo, Himari.I feel the same way, Himari.
- 陽葵 Himariあなたと愛し合うと、とても幸せ。Anata to aishiau to, totemo shiawase.I am so happy when I make love with you.
- 健太 Kenta僕にとっても最高の時間だよ。Boku ni tottemo saikou no jikan dayo.It is the best time for me too.
