‘情欲’ (qíng yù) literally combines ‘情’ (qíng), meaning ‘emotion’, ‘feeling’, or ‘affection’, and ‘欲’ (yù), meaning ‘desire’ or ‘urge’. Together, they form a formal, literary term for ‘sexual desire’—a deep, instinctive longing rooted in both emotional and physical attraction. Unlike colloquial terms like ‘性欲’ (xìng yù), which emphasizes biological drive, ‘情欲’ carries connotations of passion, intimacy, and psychological intensity, often appearing in literature, psychology, or philosophical discussions.

This word is neutral in tone but elevated in register; it rarely appears in casual speech or everyday conversation. It may describe inner states in narratives about human relationships, moral dilemmas, or artistic expression. Because of its literary weight and potential sensitivity, learners should avoid using it in informal contexts or when simpler, more neutral terms would suffice. It is not inherently negative—but context determines whether it suggests vitality, conflict, or transgression.