# had relations with, lovemaking, sleep with

## Definition:

In the Bible, these terms are euphemisms that refer to having sexual intercourse. (See: [Euphemism](rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-euphemism))

* The expression “sleep with” someone commonly refers to having sexual relations with that person. The past tense is “slept with.”
* In the Old Testament book “Song of Solomon,” the ULT uses the term “lovemaking” to translate the word “love,” which in that context refers to sexual relations. This term is related to the expression “make love to.”

## Translation Suggestions:

* Some languages may use different expressions for these terms in different contexts, depending on whether whether those involved are a married couple or whether they have some other relationship. It is important to make sure that the translation of this term has the correct meaning in each context.
* Depending on the context, expressions like these could be used to translate “sleep with”: “lie with” or “make love to” or “be intimate with.”
* Other ways to translate “have relations with” could include “have sexual relations with” or “have marital relations with.”
* The term “lovemaking” could also be translated as “loving” or “intimacy.” Or there may be an expression that is a natural way to translate this in the project language.
* It is important to check that the terms used to translate this concept are acceptable to the people who will be using the Bible translation.

(See also: [sexual immorality](../other/fornication.md))

## Bible References:

* [1 Corinthians 05:1-2](rc://en/tn/help/1co/05/01)
* [1 Samuel 01:19](rc://en/tn/help/1sa/01/19)
* [Deuteronomy 21:13](rc://en/tn/help/deu/21/13)
* [Genesis 19:05](rc://en/tn/help/gen/19/05)
* [Matthew 01:25](rc://en/tn/help/mat/01/25)

## Word Data:

* Strong’s: H160, H935, H1540, H2181, H2233, H3045, H3212, H6172, H7250, H7901, H7903, G1097
