The facts of life
noun phrase
Information about sexual reproduction and how babies are made.
John's parents decided it was time to explain the facts of life to him.
Often appears as...
- explain the facts of life
- learn about the facts of life
noun phrase
The basic truths on how the world works or general principles for survival.
My father taught me the facts of life, like the importance of hard work and honesty.
Often appears as...
- teach the facts of life
- understand the facts of life
Usage tips
Approving
Idiomatic
noun phrase
Information about sexual reproduction and how babies are made.
John's parents decided it was time to explain the facts of life to him.
Often appears as...
- explain the facts of life
- learn about the facts of life
noun phrase
The basic truths on how the world works or general principles for survival.
My father taught me the facts of life, like the importance of hard work and honesty.
Often appears as...
- teach the facts of life
- understand the facts of life
Usage tips
Approving
Idiomatic
Definition 1 of 2
Pro Tip 1/3Sensitive Topic
Consider the listener's age or relationship before explaining reproductive facts.
Aunt Sue thought I was old enough to hear about the facts of life.
Pro Tip 2/3Be Euphemistic
Use this phrase as a gentle substitute for directly mentioning sex or reproduction.
It was awkward when the teacher began discussing the facts of life in class.
Pro Tip 3/3Cultural Variance
The approach to this topic can vary between cultures; some may be more open than others.
In some cultures, talking about the facts of life is taboo.
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