Inklingo

How to Say "sexy" in Spanish

English → Spanish

sexy

SEH-ksee/ˈseksi/

adjectiveB1informal
Use this word when referring to someone or something that is physically attractive in a way that suggests desire or is overtly alluring, similar to the English usage.
A colorful storybook illustration depicting a confident person with a charming smile, standing casually and radiating appeal.

Examples

Ella llevaba un vestido rojo muy sexy.

She was wearing a very sexy red dress.

El actor tiene una voz profunda y sexy.

The actor has a deep and sexy voice.

La coreografía de la canción es muy sexy y enérgica.

The choreography for the song is very sexy and energetic.

A Borrowed Word

Since 'sexy' is borrowed directly from English, it often acts differently than typical Spanish adjectives. It usually stays the same regardless of whether the noun is masculine or feminine.

Plural Confusion

Mistake:Ellos son sexies.

Correction: Ellos son sexy (or, less commonly, 'sexys').

sensual

/sen-SWAHL//senˈswal/

adjectiveB1
Choose this word when the attractiveness is more about a deep, sensory appeal, often related to the senses (touch, sight, sound) and a more subtle, sophisticated allure.
A high-quality storybook illustration of a person enjoying the aroma of a blooming rose in a sunlit garden.

Examples

Ella tiene una voz muy sensual.

She has a very sensual voice.

El chocolate tiene una textura suave y sensual.

The chocolate has a smooth and sensory texture.

Bailaron un tango muy sensual.

They danced a very sensual tango.

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.

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.

Choosing Between 'Sexy' and 'Sensual'

Learners often use 'sexy' for any kind of attractiveness, but 'sensual' is better for a more subtle, sensory appeal. While 'sexy' can be direct, 'sensual' implies a deeper, more refined allure connected to the senses.

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