sexuella

Sexuella is a Swedish adjective used to describe things related to sex or sexuality. It functions as a modifier before plural nouns, for example in phrases such as sexuella normer (sexual norms), sexuella läggningar (sexual orientations), or sexuella hälsa (sexual health). The corresponding singular form is sexuell, and the adverbial form is sexuellt. In mainstream usage, the term appears across medicine, education, law, social science, and everyday language when referring to sexual matters.

Etymology and grammar: The word derives from Latin sexus meaning “sex” and entered Swedish through older European linguistic layers, following the pattern of Swedish adjectives with the -ell suffix. In Swedish, sexuella agrees with the number and definiteness of the noun it modifies; it takes the form sexuella before plural nouns.

Usage notes: Sexuell broadly covers physical, psychological, and social aspects of sexuality. More specific terms may be used when precision is required, such as erotisk for erotic, sexuella hälsa for sexual health, or sexual rights as sexuella rättigheter. In academic, medical, and policy contexts, neutral and respectful language is emphasized to avoid stigmatization of individuals or groups.

See also: sexual health, sexual orientation, gender and sexuality studies, sex education, consent, LGBTQ+ topics.