What is adultery?

Adultery is the act of being sexually unfaithful to a spouse or partner by engaging in sexual intercourse or a romantic relationship with someone outside of the relationship. It is generally considered a breach of trust and can have serious consequences for the individuals involved and their families. Adultery is illegal in some countries and can be grounds for divorce. In many religions, it is considered a sin and may be punishable by religious authorities. Societal attitudes toward adultery vary widely across cultures and time periods, with some societies condoning it while others view it as a grave offense. Historically, women were often punished more severely for adultery than men, and in some parts of the world, women can still be subject to legal or societal consequences for committing adultery.