sexual desire
A native Thai recording for this word is on the way. Please check back soon.
- 1 sexual desire、lust、carnal desire
This noun refers mainly to sexual desire or lust. It sounds fairly direct and is more common in psychological, legal, moral, or explanatory contexts than in casual talk about romance.
sexual desire、lust、carnal desire
This sense means sexual desire or lust, especially a physical urge toward someone. It is not a general wish or want; the core meaning is tied to sexuality.
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แยกความรักออกจากความใคร่ yɛ̂ɛk khwaam rák ɔ̀ɔk càak khwaam khrây Distinguish love from lust. แยกความรักออกจากความใคร่ details
Learning notes
Explanation
ความใคร่ is a noun formed from ความ + ใคร่, and in modern Thai it mainly means sexual desire or lust. It does not simply mean wanting something; it strongly points to a physical or sexual urge. The word is somewhat formal and also quite direct. It is not the normal word for liking someone romantically or feeling attracted in a gentle sense. In moral or critical contexts, it can carry the idea of being controlled by lust.
Usage
It is used in contexts such as psychology, medicine, sex education, law, news reports, moral discussion, and literary writing. It fits topics like the difference between love and lust, actions driven by sexual desire, or being overcome by lust.
Caution
Do not use ความใคร่ for ordinary wants or wishes. When used toward a person, it strongly suggests sexual desire, so it can sound inappropriate or offensive if used as a casual romantic expression or joke.
Differences from similar words
1 sexual desire synonyms
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ความต้องการทางเพศ is a more explanatory and relatively neutral way to say “sexual desire,” often usable in medical, educational, or general contexts. ความใคร่ is shorter and can sound more direct, intense, or lustful.