Line drawing of a finger pressed against a woman's lips
Finding Your Voice

Talking dirty isn't a performance. It's telling the person you're with what you feel and what you want, out loud. If you can say "that feels good", you can already do it. The rest is practice.

How hard is it
Easy with practice
Best for
Shy people
Works
In any relationship
Even better with
A low voice

01Why it feels awkward at first

Most of us were never taught to talk about sex, so the words feel strange in our mouths. That's normal. The awkwardness fades after a few tries, and your partner is far more likely to be turned on than to judge you.

02Start with sounds

Before words, use your breath. Sigh, moan, breathe faster when something feels good. Sound is the easiest form of dirty talk and it tells your partner they're doing it right.

03Four steps to finding your voice

  1. 1

    Say what you feel

    "That feels so good." "I love that." True and easy.

  2. 2

    Say what you want

    "Kiss my neck." "Slower." Short and direct.

  3. 3

    Say what you see

    "You look so good right now." Compliments are hot.

  4. 4

    Say what's next

    "I want you inside me." When you're ready, go further.

04Find your style

  • Sweet

    Soft, loving words whispered close.

  • Bossy

    Clear orders and "don't stop".

  • Filthy

    Explicit and bold. Save it for when you're both worked up.

05Make it easier

  • Practise the words alone, out loud, so they stop feeling strange.
  • Whisper. Quiet feels more natural than loud.
  • Agree which words you both like and which are off limits.
  • Borrow a few dirty lines to begin with.

Where to go next

Trusted sources