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carnal

Upper-Intermediate (B2)

IPA: /ˈkɑːrnəl/

KK: /ˈkɑrnəl/

adjective
Definition

Relating to the physical body, especially in a sexual way; connected to bodily desires and pleasures.


Example

The novel explores the carnal desires of its characters in a vivid manner.


Conversation
Sloth A
Have you ever thought about how carnal desires can influence our decisions?
Sloth B
Definitely! Sometimes they can cloud our judgment.
Sloth A
It's interesting to see how people react to those carnal instincts.
Sloth B
Right? Balancing them with rational thought is key.

Synonyms & Antonyms
Synonyms
bodily
physical
sensual
Antonyms
spiritual
celibate
ascetic
Root Explanation

Carnal is derived from "carnalis" (meaning of the flesh) from Latin "caro" (meaning flesh). The word refers to things related to the physical body or flesh, often in a sensual or sexual context.

Memory Tip

Think of 'flesh' ('caro') to remember that 'carnal' relates to physical or bodily matters.

Visually Confused Words
carinal
canal
cavernal
cardinal
tarnal
crinal
carval
carpal
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