The words sensual and sensuous are often interchanged even by modern writers because they both derive from the root sens-, meaning “to arouse the senses.” However, these two are used in different contexts traditionally. This post will highlight the distinction between sensual and sensuous.
The word sensual is used as an adjective which means “relating to or consisting in the gratification of the senses or the indulgence of appetite” or “of or arousing gratification of the senses and physical, especially sexual, pleasure.”
Harry Styles Did a Perfect, Sensual Cover of Fleetwood Mac’s ‘The Chain’
Out MagazineMercedes-Benz Concept EQA is the future of electric Sensual Purity
CNETLydia House, tasty heritage and sensual pleasure
Louisville Eccentric Observer
On the other hand, the term sensuous is an adjective meaning “relating to or affecting the senses rather than the intellect,” “characterized by sense impressions or imagery aimed at the senses,” or “highly susceptible to influence through the senses.”
Watch Tumhari Sulu teaser: Vidya Balan’s sensuous voice needs to be heard on a loop
The Indian Express“She’s the maker of both a large, epoch-making body of choreography and a legendarily sensuous dance style.”
New York Times“Although we rarely see Casanova himself on our tour of his sensuous world, we feel his presence as we look at paintings, sculpture, snuff boxes, embroidered vests, silk dresses, silver candy dishes, etc.”
Dallas News
However, sensuous is now being used as an adjective to mean “attractive or gratifying physically, especially sexually.”
OMG! Sakshi Chopraa’s topless pictures are extremely sensuous and bold
Free Press JournalPoonam Pandey hot and sensuous in lacy pink bikini
Tollywood NewsGautam Rode Gets His Sensuous Scenes Approved by His Mother; Set to Announce His Marriage Plans Soon!
Daily Bhaskar
Now that we’ve discussed the difference between the words sensual and sensuous, you may be able to use them correctly in your writing. It’s up to you if you want to follow the traditional distinction or use them interchangeably as most writers do today. Remember that if it relates to something erotic or sexual, you should choose sensual, in any other case, you should opt for sensuous.
