grand singe noir
The English phrase "big black monkey" is translated into French as grand singe noir.
This phrase is used to describe a large primate that possesses black fur.
Did you know?
- In French, the word singe is used in the phrase faire le singe, which means to mimic someone in a mocking or teasing way.
- While singe refers to monkeys and apes, French distinguishes the two using the term grand singe specifically for 'great apes' like gorillas and chimpanzees.
- The word noir is a doublet of the word nègre, meaning they share the same Latin ancestor nigrum despite appearing different.
Examples in context
- Regarde le gros singe noir là-bas, il est vraiment amusant !Look at the big black monkey over there, it's really funny!
- Je vois un grand singe noir.I see a big black monkey.
- Il y a un grand singe noir dans l'arbre.There is a big black monkey in the tree.
- Le grand singe noir est impressionnant.The big black monkey is impressive.
Example conversation
Gabriel and Emma are visiting a zoo.
- GabrielRegarde, Emma, un grand singe noir !Look, Emma, a big black monkey!
- EmmaOh oui, il est vraiment impressionnant.Oh yes, he is really impressive.
- GabrielIl semble très calme aujourd'hui.He seems very calm today.
- EmmaC'est vrai, ce grand singe noir dort.That's true, this big black monkey is sleeping.
Sources
- Word origins: Wiktionary entries grand, noir, singe, CC BY-SA 4.0.
