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Carnal - Meaning, Definition & English Examples

Carnal relates to physical, especially sexual, desires and pleasures rather than spiritual or intellectual matters. It often implies a focus on the body’s needs or instincts.

carnal

/ˈkɑːrnəl/ /ˈkɑːnəl/

Definition:

Relating to physical, especially sexual, desires and appetites.

Synonyms:

sensual, bodily, fleshly, erotic

Part of Speech:

adjective

Antonyms:

spiritual, chaste

Common Collocations:

carnal desires, carnal knowledge, carnal pleasures

Derivatives:

carnality, carnally

Usage Tips:

Use "carnal" to describe physical or sexual instincts, often contrasting with spiritual or intellectual aspects.

Common Phrases:

carnal knowledge, carnal sin, flesh and blood

Etymology:

From Latin *carnalis*, meaning "of the flesh," derived from *caro* (flesh).

Examples:

  • 1. She rejected his carnal advances politely.
  • 2. The novel explores the protagonist's carnal desires vividly.
  • 3. His teachings often contrasted spiritual purity with carnal indulgence.
  • 4. The artist's work was criticized for its carnal themes.

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