heterosexual
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heterosexual
Describing the sexual orientation in which a person feels romantic and/or sexual attraction primarily toward people of the other sex.
Er identifiziert sich als heterosexueller Mann.
He identifies as a heterosexual man.
The word comes from Greek. The prefix 'hetero-' means 'other' or 'different.' 'Heterosexuell' (heterosexual) therefore describes sexual attraction to the 'other' or different sex.
Die Vorsilbe „hetero-“ findet man auch in anderen Wörtern wie „heterogen“.
The prefix 'hetero-' is also found in other words such as 'heterogen' (heterogeneous).
The word can be used as a normal adjective before a noun or after a verb like 'sein' (to be). It is also often used as a noun to refer to a person.
Sie lebt in einer heterosexuellen Partnerschaft.
She lives in a heterosexual relationship.
'Heterosexuell' (heterosexual) is the neutral and formally correct term. In informal everyday language, the shortened form 'hetero' (straight) is often used.
Auf die Frage nach seiner Orientierung antwortete er: „Ich bin hetero.“
When asked about his orientation, he answered, 'I'm straight.'
