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B1 Adjective #48 am häufigsten 11 Min. Lesezeit

sexy

Top 48

At the A1 level, the word 'sexy' is usually learned as a simple way to describe someone who looks very good or attractive. It is often used to talk about famous people, like actors or singers. For example, 'He is a sexy actor' or 'She is a sexy singer.' At this level, students should understand that it is a strong word for 'beautiful' or 'handsome' but usually refers to adults. It is important to know that 'sexy' is an adjective. You can use it after 'is' or 'looks.' For example, 'The dress is sexy' or 'You look sexy.' However, A1 learners should be careful because the word is very personal. It is better to use 'beautiful' or 'nice' in most school or work situations. At this level, you might see the word in simple magazines or hear it in popular songs. The main idea to remember is that 'sexy' means 'very attractive in a way that people like a lot.' It is a common word in English movies and music, so you will hear it often, even if you don't use it yourself yet.

At the A2 level, you can start to use 'sexy' to describe things other than just people. You might hear someone say 'That's a sexy car' or 'Those are sexy shoes.' This means the car or the shoes look very modern, cool, and expensive. It is a way to show you are very impressed by how something looks. You should also learn the comparative form 'sexier' and the superlative form 'the sexiest.' For example, 'I think this red dress is sexier than the blue one' or 'He was voted the sexiest man in the world.' At this level, you should also be aware of the context. Using 'sexy' with friends is fine, but using it with a teacher or a boss might be a mistake. It is a word that carries a lot of emotion and energy. You can also use it with adverbs like 'very' or 'really' to make it stronger: 'She looks really sexy today.' Understanding that 'sexy' is about more than just a face—it's about clothes, style, and how a person moves—is a key part of moving to the next level.

At the B1 level, you should understand the nuance of 'sexy' as it relates to personality and confidence. It's not just about physical looks anymore; it's about an 'aura' or a 'vibe.' You might describe someone's voice as sexy or their confidence as sexy. This level also introduces the use of 'sexy' in business and marketing. For example, a 'sexy brand' or a 'sexy startup.' In this context, it means the company is trendy, exciting, and everyone wants to be involved with it. You should be able to distinguish between 'sexy' and 'sexual.' 'Sexy' is an adjective for attraction, while 'sexual' is often used for medical or social topics (like 'sexual orientation'). You can also use 'sexy' to describe abstract things like a 'sexy idea' or a 'sexy plot' in a book. This shows you understand the metaphorical side of the word. You should also be comfortable using it in social situations with peers, knowing when it is a compliment and when it might be too much. It's a versatile word that helps you express high levels of enthusiasm and attraction.

At the B2 level, you can use 'sexy' with more precision and understand its cultural implications. You recognize that 'sexy' can be used ironically or to describe something that is normally boring but has been made interesting. For example, 'The company is trying to make accounting look sexy.' This shows a sophisticated grasp of English irony. You also understand the 'sex sells' concept in advertising and can discuss how 'sexy' imagery is used to influence consumers. At this level, you should be able to use synonyms like 'alluring,' 'sultry,' or 'provocative' to avoid overusing 'sexy.' You understand that 'sexy' can sometimes be controversial and might lead to discussions about objectification. You can use the word in more complex sentence structures, such as 'What makes the new design so sexy is its minimalist approach.' You are also aware of the different registers—how 'sexy' is used in a fashion blog versus how it might be used in a tech review. Your ability to use the word appropriately in various social and professional contexts is much stronger now.

At the C1 level, you have a deep understanding of the word's history and its power in discourse. You can analyze how the definition of 'sexy' has shifted over decades—from the Hollywood glamour of the 1950s to the tech-driven 'sexy' of the 21st century. You can use the word in high-level discussions about marketing strategy, brand identity, and social psychology. For instance, you might discuss the 'sexiness' of a data-driven approach in modern politics. You are also sensitive to the potential for 'sexy' to be used in a way that is exclusionary or problematic, and you can navigate these conversations with ease. You might use the word in creative writing to evoke a specific atmosphere, perhaps using it to describe a city, a piece of music, or a complex intellectual theory. Your vocabulary includes related terms like 'sapiosexual' or 'erotic,' and you know exactly when 'sexy' is the most effective word to use. You understand the subtle difference between 'sexy' and 'glamorous' or 'elegant,' and you can explain these differences to others.

At the C2 level, you use 'sexy' with the flair and nuance of a native speaker. You understand its most subtle connotations, including its use in dark humor, satire, and high-level academic critique. You can discuss the 'semiotics of sexy' in media studies or the 'sexy' nature of high-risk financial derivatives in economics. You are aware of the word's etymological journey and how it has been reclaimed or redefined by different subcultures. Your use of the word is always perfectly calibrated to the situation, whether you're using it in a playful, flirtatious way or as a sharp, descriptive tool in a professional critique. You can identify when 'sexy' is being used as a 'buzzword' to mask a lack of substance and can call it out effectively. At this level, the word is just one tool in a massive arsenal of descriptive language, and you use it only when its specific blend of excitement, attraction, and trendiness is exactly what is required. You are a master of the word's many lives, from the bedroom to the boardroom.

Jetzt üben Beispiele Notizen & Tipps

sexy in 30 Sekunden

Sexy describes someone who is sexually attractive or something that is exciting, trendy, and highly appealing to many people.
It is commonly used for people's looks, but also for cars, technology, fashion, and even business ideas that are 'cool'.
The word implies a mix of physical beauty, confidence, and a modern style that makes others want or admire it.
While popular in casual talk and marketing, it should be used carefully in formal or sensitive situations to avoid being inappropriate.

The word sexy is a multi-faceted adjective that has evolved significantly from its origins. At its core, it describes someone who is sexually attractive or has a strong appeal. However, in modern English, its usage has expanded far beyond physical attraction to encompass anything that is exciting, trendy, fashionable, or highly desirable. When we call a person sexy, we aren't just talking about their physical features; we are often referring to their confidence, their style, and the way they carry themselves. It is a word that captures a certain 'spark' or 'allure' that draws others in. In a professional or creative context, calling a project or a piece of technology 'sexy' means it is innovative, sleek, and likely to be very successful or popular. For example, a new sports car or a cutting-edge smartphone is often described as sexy because of its design and the status it conveys.

Physical Attraction: This is the most common use, referring to someone's appearance or aura that triggers sexual interest. It is often used in dating, fashion, and entertainment.

He looked incredibly sexy in that tailored suit, commanding the attention of everyone in the room.

Metaphorical Appeal: In business and marketing, 'sexy' refers to something that is profitable, exciting, or has a high 'cool' factor. A 'sexy' investment is one that is likely to grow quickly and attract a lot of attention.

The cultural perception of what is 'sexy' changes over time and varies across different societies. In some cultures, modesty is seen as sexy, while in others, bold self-expression is the standard. This word is also heavily used in the media to sell products, from perfumes to software. The 'sex sells' mantra is built entirely on the idea that making a product appear sexy will increase its market value. Furthermore, the word can be used ironically or playfully among friends. If a friend buys a new, high-tech kitchen appliance, you might say, 'That’s a sexy blender!' to mean it looks modern and impressive. This versatility makes it a staple of the English language, bridging the gap between personal desire and professional enthusiasm.

The startup's new app has a sexy user interface that makes navigation feel effortless and fun.

Confidence as Sexiness: Many people believe that intelligence and confidence are the sexiest traits a person can possess, moving the definition away from purely physical traits.

There is nothing more sexy than a person who is passionate about their work and knows their worth.

The marketing team is looking for a sexy angle to promote the new luxury travel packages.

The city skyline at night, with all its neon lights, looked incredibly sexy and full of promise.

Using 'sexy' correctly involves understanding the balance between its literal and figurative meanings. When describing a person, it usually functions as a standard adjective following a linking verb or preceding a noun. However, the tone is crucial. It can be a sincere compliment, a flirtatious remark, or even a descriptive observation in a fashion context. When applying it to objects or concepts, it acts as a synonym for 'appealing' or 'high-end.' You might describe a 'sexy new car' or a 'sexy business strategy.' In these cases, the word adds a layer of excitement that 'good' or 'interesting' simply doesn't capture. It suggests that the object has a certain magnetic quality that makes people want it immediately.

Attributive Use: When 'sexy' comes before the noun, it highlights a specific quality: 'She has a sexy voice' or 'That is a sexy dress.'

The actress gave a sexy performance that captivated the critics and the audience alike.

Predicative Use: When 'sexy' follows a verb like 'is' or 'looks': 'The new design is very sexy' or 'He looks sexy tonight.'

In professional environments, 'sexy' is often used to describe data, technology, or marketing campaigns. A 'sexy' data set is one that is clean, easy to analyze, and yields exciting results. A 'sexy' brand is one that consumers are currently obsessed with. It’s important to note that while 'sexy' is common in tech and advertising, it might be inappropriate in more conservative industries like banking or law unless you are discussing creative assets. Always gauge the 'vibe' of the room. If your colleagues are using informal, enthusiastic language, 'sexy' is likely acceptable. If the tone is strictly formal and dry, stick to words like 'compelling,' 'attractive,' or 'innovative.'

The company is trying to make insurance seem sexy by using celebrity influencers in their ads.

Comparative and Superlative: The forms are 'sexier' and 'sexiest.' Example: 'This year's model is even sexier than the last one.'

She felt sexy and confident after her makeover, ready to take on the world.

The architect's vision for the skyscraper was sexy, modern, and environmentally friendly.

The rhythm of the salsa music was undeniably sexy, making everyone want to dance.

You will encounter the word 'sexy' in a vast array of settings, from pop songs and movies to boardroom meetings and fashion runways. In pop culture, 'sexy' is a constant theme. Songs like Justin Timberlake's 'SexyBack' helped cement the word's association with confidence and 'bringing back' a certain style. In movies, characters are often described as the 'sexy lead,' and fashion magazines are filled with 'sexy summer looks' or 'sexy evening wear.' This usage is largely about aesthetic appeal and the desire to be noticed. It's a word that sells magazines and drives clicks on social media, where 'sexy' content often goes viral due to its immediate visual impact.

In the Tech World: Developers often talk about 'sexy code' or 'sexy hardware.' This means the code is elegant and efficient, or the hardware is beautifully designed.

The new electric car has a sexy dashboard that looks like something out of a sci-fi movie.

In Advertising: Ads for perfume, alcohol, and luxury goods almost always use 'sexy' imagery to create a sense of aspiration and desire in the consumer.

Beyond the commercial world, 'sexy' is a common part of everyday conversation among adults. It's used to compliment a partner, discuss a celebrity crush, or describe a night out. In the dating world, 'sexy' is a high-value descriptor. On dating apps, people might describe their 'sexy' hobbies or post 'sexy' photos to attract matches. However, there is also a growing movement that redefines 'sexy' as being about intelligence (sapiosexuality) or kindness. This shift shows that while the word remains popular, its meaning is constantly being negotiated by society. You'll also hear it in sports, where a 'sexy' play is one that is particularly skillful or visually impressive, like a perfectly executed goal in soccer.

The quarterback made a sexy pass right into the hands of the receiver for a touchdown.

In Food and Travel: Food critics might describe a 'sexy' chocolate dessert, and travel bloggers often look for 'sexy' boutique hotels with great views.

The restaurant's dim lighting and velvet booths give it a very sexy, intimate atmosphere.

The magazine features the ten most sexy travel destinations for couples this year.

He has such a sexy accent; I could listen to him talk about anything for hours.

One of the most common mistakes learners make with 'sexy' is using it in inappropriate contexts. Because the word has a strong sexual connotation, using it to describe a teacher, a child, or a family member can be very awkward or even offensive. It's important to remember that 'sexy' is not a synonym for 'beautiful' or 'cute' in all situations. While you can call a baby 'cute' or 'beautiful,' calling a baby 'sexy' is completely inappropriate and socially unacceptable. Similarly, in a very formal professional setting, calling a colleague's presentation 'sexy' might be seen as unprofessional or harassment, depending on the corporate culture and the relationship between the individuals.

Confusing 'Sexy' with 'Sexual': 'Sexy' is an adjective describing appeal, while 'sexual' is a more clinical or technical term relating to sex itself (e.g., 'sexual health' vs. 'sexy clothes').

Incorrect: He gave a sexual performance. (This sounds like he performed a sex act.) Correct: He gave a sexy performance.

Overusing the Word: Using 'sexy' for everything can make your vocabulary seem limited. If you use it for a sandwich, a car, a person, and a spreadsheet in the same hour, it loses its impact.

Another mistake is failing to recognize the difference between 'sexy' and 'sexist.' While 'sexy' is a descriptor of attraction, 'sexist' refers to prejudice or discrimination based on sex. These words sound somewhat similar but have completely different meanings. Additionally, some learners might use 'sexy' when they mean 'attractive' in a non-sexual way. For instance, if you see a beautiful sunset, calling it 'sexy' is possible but sounds very unusual and highly personified. 'Breathtaking' or 'gorgeous' would be much more natural choices. Lastly, be careful with the comparative form. 'Sexier' is correct, but 'more sexy' is also used, though 'sexier' is generally preferred in casual speech.

The new marketing campaign was criticized for being sexist, not sexy, as it relied on outdated stereotypes.

Misunderstanding the 'Sexy' Business Jargon: In business, 'sexy' doesn't mean the person doing the work is attractive; it means the work itself is high-profile or lucrative.

She mistakenly called her boss's tie sexy, which created a very uncomfortable silence in the meeting.

Don't confuse sexy with 'slutty'—the latter is a derogatory and offensive term that should be avoided.

It's a common error to think that sexy only refers to skin; it can also refer to a sharp mind or a great sense of humor.

Because 'sexy' is such a strong and versatile word, it's helpful to know alternatives that can convey similar meanings with different nuances or levels of formality. If you are talking about physical beauty without the sexual undertone, words like 'attractive,' 'good-looking,' or 'stunning' are safer bets. If you want to emphasize a mysterious or magnetic quality, 'alluring' or 'captivating' are excellent choices. In the world of design and technology, where 'sexy' means sleek and modern, you might use 'stylish,' 'sophisticated,' or 'cutting-edge.' Understanding these synonyms allows you to tailor your language to the specific context and audience you are addressing.

Sexy vs. Attractive: 'Attractive' is a broad term for anything pleasing to look at. 'Sexy' specifically implies a pull of desire or sexual interest.

While the painting was attractive, the model in the photograph was undeniably sexy.

Sexy vs. Hot: 'Hot' is more slangy and often refers to immediate, intense physical attraction. 'Sexy' can be more about a person's overall vibe or personality.

In professional contexts, if you want to avoid the word 'sexy' but keep the enthusiasm, try 'compelling' or 'high-profile.' For example, instead of a 'sexy project,' you could call it a 'prestigious assignment' or a 'high-impact initiative.' If you're describing a sleek piece of technology, 'elegant' or 'streamlined' are great alternatives. For fashion, 'chic' or 'glamorous' can often replace 'sexy' while adding a touch of class. By choosing the right alternative, you can maintain the positive connotation of 'sexy' while ensuring your language is perfectly suited to the environment. This is especially important in writing, where the lack of tone and body language can make 'sexy' seem more jarring than intended.

The new smartphone has a sleek design that many tech reviewers have called sexy.

Sexy vs. Provocative: 'Provocative' means intended to provoke a reaction, often sexual, but it can also mean controversial or thought-provoking.

She looked stunning in her wedding dress, but she chose a more sexy outfit for the after-party.

The marketing team decided that 'bold' was a better keyword than 'sexy' for the new family car.

His charismatic personality is what makes him so sexy to his fans.

How Formal Is It?

Formell

Neutral

Informell

Child friendly

Umgangssprache

Wusstest du?

The word 'sexy' was once considered quite scandalous and was rarely used in polite society or mainstream media until the mid-20th century.

Aussprachehilfe

UK /ˈsek.si/

US /ˈsek.si/

The stress is on the first syllable: SEK-si.

Reimt sich auf

flexy prexy galaxy (near rhyme) taxi (near rhyme) epoxy (near rhyme) proxy (near rhyme) boxy foxy

Häufige Fehler

Pronouncing the 'y' like 'ai' (as in 'sky'). It should be 'ee'.
Making the 'e' sound too long, like 'seek-si'.
Putting the stress on the second syllable.
Muffling the 's' sound so it sounds like 'z'.
Confusing the pronunciation with 'sexist'.

Schwierigkeitsgrad

Lesen 2/5

Common word found in most media; easy to recognize.

Schreiben 3/5

Requires care to use in the right context without being offensive.

Sprechen 3/5

Intonation and social context are key to proper usage.

Hören 2/5

Easily understood in songs and movies.

Was du als Nächstes lernen solltest

Voraussetzungen

attractive beautiful hot style desire

Als Nächstes lernen

alluring sultry provocative charismatic sophisticated

Fortgeschritten

objectification sapiosexual aesthetic connotation sensuality

Wichtige Grammatik

Gradable Adjectives

You can say 'very sexy' or 'extremely sexy' because it's a gradable quality.

Comparative Forms

For two-syllable adjectives ending in -y, change -y to -ier (sexier).

Attributive vs Predicative

Attributive: 'A sexy car.' Predicative: 'The car is sexy.'

Adverbs of Manner

The adverb form is 'sexily', as in 'She smiled sexily at the camera.'

Noun Formation

The noun form 'sexiness' describes the state of being sexy.

Beispiele nach Niveau

He is a very sexy actor.

Il est un acteur très sexy.

Adjective after 'is'.

She looks sexy in that dress.

Elle a l'air sexy dans cette robe.

Adjective after 'looks'.

Is he sexy?

Est-il sexy ?

Question form.

They are a sexy couple.

Ils sont un couple sexy.

Adjective before a noun.

I want to look sexy tonight.

Je veux avoir l'air sexy ce soir.

Infinitive 'to look' + adjective.

That singer is so sexy.

Ce chanteur est tellement sexy.

Use of 'so' as an intensifier.

He has a sexy smile.

Il a un sourire sexy.

Adjective describing a feature.

The movie star is sexy.

La star de cinéma est sexy.

Simple subject-verb-adjective.

That is a really sexy car!

C'est une voiture vraiment sexy !

Metaphorical use for an object.

Who is the sexiest person you know?

Qui est la personne la plus sexy que tu connaisses ?

Superlative form.

This new phone design is sexier than the old one.

Le design de ce nouveau téléphone est plus sexy que l'ancien.

Comparative form.

She wore sexy shoes to the party.

Elle a porté des chaussures sexy à la fête.

Plural noun.

He thinks confidence is sexy.

Il pense que la confiance est sexy.

Abstract concept as subject.

The magazine has many sexy photos.

Le magazine contient beaucoup de photos sexy.

Adjective with plural noun.

You look sexier with your hair down.

Tu as l'air plus sexy avec les cheveux lâchés.

Comparative with a condition.

It’s a sexy, modern apartment.

C'est un appartement sexy et moderne.

List of adjectives.

The startup has a very sexy business model.

La startup a un modèle d'affaires très sexy.

Business jargon meaning 'appealing'.

He has a deep, sexy voice that everyone loves.

Il a une voix grave et sexy que tout le monde adore.

Describing a non-visual trait.

The marketing team is looking for a sexy way to sell the product.

L'équipe marketing cherche un moyen sexy de vendre le produit.

Meaning 'exciting' or 'trendy'.

She finds intelligence to be the sexiest quality in a partner.

Elle trouve que l'intelligence est la qualité la plus sexy chez un partenaire.

Superlative with abstract noun.

The new electric bike has a very sexy, minimalist look.

Le nouveau vélo électrique a un look très sexy et minimaliste.

Describing design.

I don't think this ad is sexy; it's just boring.

Je ne pense pas que cette pub soit sexy ; elle est juste ennuyeuse.

Negative comparison.

They are trying to make data science seem sexy to students.

Ils essaient de rendre la science des données sexy pour les étudiants.

Infinitive 'to make' + object + adjective.

The city looks sexy at night with all the lights.

La ville a l'air sexy la nuit avec toutes les lumières.

Describing an atmosphere.

The company’s rebranding is actually quite sexy.

Le rebranding de l'entreprise est en fait assez sexy.

Meaning 'innovative' and 'attractive'.

He played a sexy saxophone solo that moved the crowd.

Il a joué un solo de saxophone sexy qui a ému la foule.

Describing a performance style.

The 'sex sells' strategy relies on making everything look sexy.

La stratégie 'le sexe fait vendre' repose sur le fait de tout rendre sexy.

Gerund phrase.

It’s not a sexy job, but it pays the bills.

Ce n'est pas un boulot sexy, mais ça paie les factures.

Idiomatic use meaning 'exciting' or 'glamorous'.

She has a sexy confidence that isn't arrogant.

Elle a une confiance sexy qui n'est pas de l'arrogance.

Nuanced description.

The new software update includes some sexy new features.

La nouvelle mise à jour du logiciel inclut des fonctionnalités sexy.

Describing tech improvements.

The architect wanted the building to have a sexy silhouette.

L'architecte voulait que le bâtiment ait une silhouette sexy.

Describing shape and form.

The film was criticized for focusing too much on sexy imagery.

Le film a été critiqué pour s'être trop concentré sur l'imagerie sexy.

Passive voice.

The politician tried to give his tax plan a sexy makeover.

Le politicien a essayé de donner un relooking sexy à son plan fiscal.

Metaphorical use in politics.

The novel explores the sexy, dangerous world of high-stakes gambling.

Le roman explore le monde sexy et dangereux des jeux d'argent à gros enjeux.

Describing a lifestyle.

What is considered sexy is often a reflection of societal values.

Ce qui est considéré comme sexy est souvent le reflet des valeurs sociétales.

Noun clause as subject.

The brand's sexiness comes from its exclusivity and mystery.

Le côté sexy de la marque vient de son exclusivité et de son mystère.

Noun form 'sexiness'.

The documentary takes a sexy look at the history of jazz.

Le documentaire jette un regard sexy sur l'histoire du jazz.

Meaning 'stylish' and 'engaging'.

She delivered the news with a sexy, knowing wink.

Elle a annoncé la nouvelle avec un clin d'œil sexy et complice.

Describing a gesture.

The startup's pitch was sexy enough to secure millions in funding.

Le pitch de la startup était assez sexy pour obtenir des millions de financement.

Adjective + enough.

The rhythm of the poem is surprisingly sexy and fluid.

Le rythme du poème est étonnamment sexy et fluide.

Describing literary style.

The campaign masterfully navigated the fine line between sexy and scandalous.

La campagne a magistralement navigué sur la ligne fine entre sexy et scandaleux.

Abstract comparison.

The tech giant is desperate to find the next sexy breakthrough in AI.

Le géant de la tech cherche désespérément la prochaine percée sexy en IA.

Meaning 'revolutionary' and 'marketable'.

Her intellectual curiosity is, quite frankly, her sexiest attribute.

Sa curiosité intellectuelle est, franchement, son attribut le plus sexy.

Superlative with an abstract noun.

The restaurant's allure is built on a sexy, underground aesthetic.

L'attrait du restaurant repose sur une esthétique sexy et souterraine.

Describing a specific style.

The media's obsession with 'sexy' stories often overshadows real issues.

L'obsession des médias pour les histoires 'sexy' éclipse souvent les vrais problèmes.

Quotation marks for irony/critique.

The violin concerto had a sexy, almost primal energy.

Le concerto pour violon avait une énergie sexy, presque primale.

Describing musical intensity.

He has a sexy, nonchalant way of dealing with crisis.

Il a une façon sexy et nonchalante de gérer les crises.

Describing a personality trait.

The project lacked the sexy appeal needed to attract top-tier talent.

Le projet manquait de l'attrait sexy nécessaire pour attirer les meilleurs talents.

Describing marketability.

Häufige Kollokationen

sexy look

sexy voice

sexy car

sexy dress

sexy lingerie

sexy accent

sexy design

sexy startup

sexy image

sexy performance

Häufige Phrasen

bring sexy back

sex sells

sexy as hell

voted sexiest man alive

make [something] sexy

sexy little number

too sexy for my shirt

sexy talk

the sexy part

not very sexy

Wird oft verwechselt mit

sexy vs sexual

Sexual relates to the biology or act of sex; sexy relates to attraction and appeal.

sexy vs sexist

Sexist refers to gender discrimination; sexy refers to being attractive.

sexy vs sensual

Sensual refers to the senses and physical pleasure; sexy is more about outward attraction.

Redewendungen & Ausdrücke

"Sex up"

To make something more exciting, attractive, or interesting than it really is.

The editors decided to sex up the headline to get more clicks.

informal

"Easy on the eyes"

A polite way to say someone is attractive or sexy.

The new lead actor is certainly easy on the eyes.

neutral

"Drop-dead gorgeous"

Extremely attractive, often used as a synonym for very sexy.

She looked drop-dead gorgeous in her evening gown.

informal

"A real looker"

Someone who is very physically attractive or sexy.

His new girlfriend is a real looker.

informal

"Eye candy"

Someone or something that is visually attractive but lacks substance.

The movie was mostly just eye candy with a weak plot.

informal

"Turn-on"

Something that someone finds very sexy or attractive.

A good sense of humor is a major turn-on for me.

informal

"Ooze sex appeal"

To have a very strong and obvious sexy quality.

The singer seemed to ooze sex appeal on stage.

neutral

"Bedroom eyes"

A look that is considered very sexy and suggestive of sexual interest.

She gave him a look with those bedroom eyes.

informal

"Clean up well"

To look very attractive or sexy when dressed up, compared to one's usual look.

You certainly clean up well for a formal event!

informal

"Total package"

Someone who is sexy, intelligent, and has a great personality.

She's the total package: smart, funny, and sexy.

informal

Leicht verwechselbar

sexy vs Sexual

Similar root word.

Sexual is often clinical or related to the act of sex, while sexy is an adjective for attraction.

Sexual health is important, but that dress is just sexy.

sexy vs Sexist

Sounds similar.

Sexist is a negative word about prejudice; sexy is a positive (usually) word about attraction.

His comments were sexist, not sexy.

sexy vs Sensual

Both relate to attraction.

Sensual is about pleasing the senses (touch, taste); sexy is about sexual appeal.

The silk sheets felt sensual, but she looked sexy.

sexy vs Erotic

Both relate to sex.

Erotic is much stronger and often refers to art or literature intended to cause sexual arousal.

The movie was more erotic than just sexy.

sexy vs Handsome

Both mean attractive.

Handsome is usually for men and implies classic beauty; sexy implies a more intense attraction.

He is handsome, but his brother is the sexy one.

Satzmuster

He/She is sexy.

She is sexy.

That is a sexy [noun].

That is a sexy car.

I find [noun] sexy.

I find confidence sexy.

[Noun] looks sexy.

The design looks sexy.

The sexiest thing about [noun] is [noun].

The sexiest thing about the app is the interface.

It’s a sexy way to [verb].

It's a sexy way to present the data.

Navigating the line between sexy and [adjective].

Navigating the line between sexy and vulgar.

The [noun] lacks the sexy appeal of [noun].

The project lacks the sexy appeal of the competitor's.

Wortfamilie

Substantive

Verben

Adjektive

Verwandt

So verwendest du es

frequency

Very high in media, high in casual speech, low in formal academic writing.

Häufige Fehler

Calling a child 'sexy'. → Calling a child 'cute'.
Calling a child 'sexy' is socially unacceptable and has very negative connotations.
Using 'sexual' when you mean 'sexy'. → She looks sexy.
'Sexual' refers to the act or biology of sex; 'sexy' refers to attraction.
Calling a boss 'sexy' in a meeting. → Calling a boss 'charismatic'.
It is unprofessional and can be seen as harassment in a workplace setting.
Pronouncing it 'sex-eye'. → Pronouncing it 'sex-ee'.
The 'y' at the end of adjectives like 'sexy' or 'happy' is always an 'ee' sound.
Using 'sexy' for a sunset. → Using 'gorgeous' for a sunset.
While possible, 'sexy' is usually reserved for people or man-made objects with 'cool' designs.

Tipps

Context is King

Always consider who you are talking to. 'Sexy' is great for a date, but risky for a job interview.

Vary Your Adjectives

Don't just use 'sexy'. Try 'alluring', 'stunning', or 'chic' to show off your English skills.

Respect Boundaries

In some cultures, 'sexy' is a very private word. Be careful when using it in international settings.

The 'Sexy' Project

In business, 'sexy' means high-profile. Use it to show you're excited about a new opportunity.

Comparatives

Remember: sexy -> sexier -> sexiest. It follows the same rule as 'happy' or 'funny'.

The Final 'Y'

Make sure the 'y' sounds like 'ee', not 'eye'. A clear 'ee' makes the word sound natural.

Marketing Speak

In copywriting, 'sexy' is used to create 'stopping power'—making the reader pause and look.

Playful Irony

You can call a boring object 'sexy' (like a spreadsheet) to be funny with your friends.

Song Lyrics

Listen to how pop stars use the word; it's almost always about confidence and power.

Avoid Slang Synonyms

While 'sexy' is safe, some slang synonyms can be offensive. Stick to 'sexy' until you're very fluent.

Einprägen

Eselsbrücke

Think of the 'S' in Sexy as standing for 'Sleek' and 'Stylish'. If it's Sleek and Stylish, it's probably Sexy!

Visuelle Assoziation

Imagine a bright red sports car with smooth curves. That visual 'spark' is exactly what 'sexy' feels like.

Word Web

attractive hot cool trendy alluring sleek confident desirable

Herausforderung

Try to use 'sexy' to describe three different things today: a person, an object, and an idea. Make sure the context is appropriate for each!

Wortherkunft

The word 'sexy' emerged in the early 20th century, around 1905-1910. It was formed by adding the suffix '-y' to the noun 'sex'.

Ursprüngliche Bedeutung: Originally, it meant 'preoccupied with sex' or 'sexually suggestive'.

Germanic (English origin).

Kultureller Kontext

Avoid using 'sexy' to describe children, subordinates at work, or in very formal/religious settings. It can be perceived as sexual harassment in the workplace if used inappropriately.

In the US and UK, 'sexy' is very common in casual conversation and marketing. It is less formal than 'attractive' but more formal than 'hot'.

'SexyBack' by Justin Timberlake People Magazine's 'Sexiest Man Alive' The 'Sexy' dance in many pop music videos

Im Alltag üben

Kontexte aus dem Alltag

Dating

You look sexy.
I find your confidence sexy.
That's a sexy look.
He's very sexy.

Fashion

Sexy summer styles.
A sexy evening gown.
Sexy footwear.
The sexiest trends.

Business/Tech

A sexy new startup.
Sexy data visualization.
A sexy product launch.
Make the pitch sexier.

Music/Movies

A sexy music video.
The sexy lead actor.
A sexy dance routine.
Sexy lyrics.

Automotive

A sexy sports car.
Sexy curves on the bodywork.
The sexiest engine sound.
A sexy interior.

Gesprächseinstiege

"Who do you think is the sexiest celebrity right now and why?"

"Do you think a person's intelligence can be sexier than their looks?"

"What is the sexiest car you have ever seen in real life?"

"In your opinion, what makes a brand or a company 'sexy'?"

"Do you think the word 'sexy' is overused in advertising these days?"

Tagebuch-Impulse

Describe a time you felt really sexy and confident. What were you wearing or doing?

Write about a piece of technology or a product you own that you find 'sexy'. What about its design appeals to you?

Reflect on how the definition of 'sexy' has changed in your culture over the last twenty years.

If you were a marketing manager, how would you make a 'boring' product like insurance seem sexy?

Do you agree with the phrase 'sex sells'? Write about an advertisement that used 'sexy' imagery effectively or poorly.

Häufig gestellte Fragen

10 Fragen

It is generally not recommended. In most professional environments, calling a superior 'sexy' can be seen as sexual harassment or highly unprofessional. Stick to words like 'inspiring' or 'charismatic' if you want to compliment their personality.

No, it is not a 'bad' or 'swear' word. However, it is a 'strong' word with sexual connotations, so it should be used in appropriate contexts. It is perfectly fine in casual social settings among adults.

'Hot' is more informal and usually refers to immediate physical attraction. 'Sexy' can be broader, including personality, confidence, and style. 'Sexy' is often considered a slightly more 'mature' compliment than 'hot'.

Yes, 'sexy' is a gender-neutral adjective. It is equally common to describe a man or a woman as sexy.

Only use it to describe projects, data, or marketing ideas that are exciting and trendy. For example, 'This is a sexy new direction for our brand.' Never use it to describe a colleague's appearance.

No, absolutely not. This is considered highly inappropriate and offensive in almost every culture. Use words like 'cute,' 'adorable,' or 'sweet' for children.

To 'sex up' something means to make it more interesting or exciting, often by adding details that might not be entirely true or by improving its visual appeal. It's common in journalism and marketing.

Both are grammatically acceptable, but 'sexier' is much more common and sounds more natural to native speakers.

It is a modern term for someone who finds intelligence to be the most 'sexy' or attractive quality in another person.

Because high-end cars are designed with smooth curves and powerful engines that create a sense of desire and status, similar to the way a person might be physically attractive.