Dictionary entry
sexual union
noun
交配；交合
the act of a male and female coming together to reproduce
- 1.
the act of pairing a male and female for reproductive purposes
In use
Sexual union is a normal part of the life cycle for most animals.
The zoo's breeding program relies on carefully timed sexual union between the pandas.
Many insects have very brief sexual union that lasts only a few seconds.
sexual union between [noun] and [noun]
正式用语，强调两方之间的结合。
The film explores the sexual union between the two lovers.
这部电影探讨了两个恋人之间的性结合。
engage in sexual union
正式短语，常用于书面或文学语境。
They engaged in sexual union under the moonlight.
他们在月光下进行了性结合。
sexual union with [noun]
强调与特定对象的结合。
He dreamed of a sexual union with his partner.
他梦想与伴侣的性结合。
Common mistakes
They sexual unioned last night.They had a sexual union last night.
'sexual union' 是名词短语，不能用作动词。应使用 'had a sexual union' 或 'engaged in sexual union'。
They made a sexual union.They had a sexual union.
'make' 不是与 'sexual union' 搭配的正确动词；常用动词是 'have' 或 'engage in'。
Connections
Confusing words
- mating
- 交配 · 'sexual union'强调生殖目的的结合，'mating'更广泛，可指动物交配或植物授粉
- copulation
- 交媾 · 'sexual union'是正式生物学用语，'copulation'更具体指性交行为本身
Dictionary facts from ECDICT, WORDNET.