carnal
What does "carnal" mean?
The word "carnal" refers to things relating to the physical body, particularly in terms of sexual desires or appetites. The mental image is one of raw, biological impulses—the "flesh"—as opposed to the intellectual, spiritual, or emotional aspects of a person. It is a formal or literary term often used to contrast physical sensations with higher-minded pursuits. While it can simply mean "bodily," it usually carries a weight of indulgence or intensity, and is frequently used in discussions about morality, philosophy, or literature to describe passions that are purely material in nature.
"carnal" in conversation
Discussing a novel
The protagonist is constantly struggling against his carnal urges.
The protagonist is constantly struggling against his carnal urges.
It makes sense, he's trying to achieve enlightenment, right?
It makes sense, he's trying to achieve enlightenment, right?
Used to describe a conflict between spiritual goals and bodily desires.
Art critique
The painting captures a very carnal energy.
The painting captures a very carnal energy.
I see what you mean, the focus on the skin and movement is intense.
I see what you mean, the focus on the skin and movement is intense.
Used here to describe an aesthetic quality that feels grounded in the physical body.
"carnal" in a sentence
He sought to satisfy his carnal hunger.
He sought to satisfy his carnal hunger.
The sermon warned the congregation against the dangers of carnal temptations.
The sermon warned the congregation against the dangers of carnal temptations.
She found a sharp contrast between her intellectual life and her carnal impulses.
She found a sharp contrast between her intellectual life and her carnal impulses.
