heterosexual
Loading your saved state.
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.'
gay
'schwul' and 'heterosexuell' both describe a sexual or romantic orientation, but they are opposites. 'schwul' is used for a man who loves men or is attracted to men. 'heterosexuell' describes a person who is mainly attracted to the other sex. 'heterosexuell' sounds more factual and complete than the short form 'hetero'. For precise or official language, 'heterosexuell' fits well; in everyday speech, you also often hear 'hetero'.
Ben ist heterosexuell und spricht offen über seine Beziehung zu Anna.
Ben is heterosexual and speaks openly about his relationship with Anna.
Ich sagte bei der Arbeit, dass mein bester Freund schwul ist.
I said at work that my best friend is gay.