opposite sex

[op-uh-zit seks, op-uh-sit]

noun

1. Often the opposite sex women in reference to men or men in reference to women.

   Do you have many friends of the opposite sex?

adjective

1. Usually opposite-sex of or relating to two or more persons of different genders: Opposite-sex marriage is more normalized than same-sex marriage.

   The study is about relationships between children and their opposite-sex parents.

   Opposite-sex marriage is more normalized than same-sex marriage.

opposite sex

noun

1. women in relation to men or men in relation to women

Usage

The phrase opposite sex relies on an assumption that men and women are indeed opposites. This upholds a binary view of gender, and also usually conflates sex and gender, both of which may be considered controversial. A less binary version of the phrase is other genders.

Word History and Origins

Origin of opposite sex¹

First recorded in 1710–30

Example Sentences

"The report documents that AB, while at a social event related to CGF business, spent an inordinate amount of time with a volunteer of the opposite sex," the CGF added.

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Protagonist Jamie doesn't have any female friends, and appears to view relations with the opposite sex through a lens of dominance and manipulation.

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Sophie says Ben learned most about friendship with the opposite sex during a visit to a cousin's house, who attends a mixed school and has female friends.

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With that being our reality, watching these struggling monogamists swim through the opposite sex’s bare skin and lower standards is a relief.

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In every season, the consenting couples are split into separate villas where they’re surrounded by single members of the opposite sex.

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