Inklingo
← Dictionary
A high-quality storybook illustration of a person enjoying the aroma of a blooming rose in a sunlit garden.

sensual

sen-SWAHL

adjectivem or fB1
sensual?appealing to the senses or physically attractive,sexy?suggestive or attractive
Also:sensory?relating to the physical senses like touch or taste

πŸ“ In Action

Ella tiene una voz muy sensual.

B1

She has a very sensual voice.

El chocolate tiene una textura suave y sensual.

B2

The chocolate has a smooth and sensory texture.

Bailaron un tango muy sensual.

B1

They danced a very sensual tango.

Word Connections

Synonyms

  • voluptuoso (voluptuous)
  • provocativo (provocative)
  • sugestivo (suggestive)

Antonyms

Common Collocations

  • mirada sensual – sensual look
  • movimientos sensuales – sensual movements
  • placer sensual – sensory/physical pleasure

πŸ’‘ Grammar Points

One Form for Everyone

This word is the same for both men and women. You can say 'un hombre sensual' or 'una mujer sensual' without changing the ending.

❌ Common Pitfalls

Sensual vs. Sensorial

Mistake: "Using 'sensual' for strictly scientific or technical sensory things."

Correction: Use 'sensorial' for technical things (like 'the sensory system') and 'sensual' for things that are pleasing or attractive to the senses.

⭐ Usage Tips

Elegant, not vulgar

In Spanish, 'sensual' is often seen as a more elegant or artistic word than 'sexy'.

✏️ Quick Practice

πŸ’‘ Quick Quiz: sensual

Question 1 of 2

Which of these best describes something 'sensual'?

πŸ“š More Resources

Word Family

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use 'sensual' to describe food?

Yes! If the food has a texture or smell that is very pleasing or indulgent, 'sensual' is a great, descriptive word to use.

Is 'sensual' considered a bad or 'dirty' word?

Not at all. While it can imply sexual attraction, it is a very common and acceptable word in literature, art criticism, and polite conversation.