opposite sex

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

Phonetic (Standard)IPA

noun

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

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

the opposite sex
women in relation to men or men in relation to women

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Usage Note

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.

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Word History and Origins

Origin of opposite sex¹

First recorded in 1710–30

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Example Sentences

Examples have not been reviewed.

"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.

From

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

From

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.

From

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

From

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

From

opposite prompt opposition

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