grandes simios
/ɡɾandes simjos/from spelling rules
The English phrase "great apes" is translated into Spanish as grandes simios.
Specifically, related species include orangután (orangutan), chimpancé (chimpanzee) and gorila (gorilla).
What does it mean word for word?
The phrase is composed of grandes, meaning great or large and simios, meaning apes.
Did you know?
- Unlike the English 'great' in 'great apes', which denotes a category, grandes in grandes simios is interpreted literally as 'large'. A baby gorilla might be called a simio pequeño even though it belongs to the great ape family.
- The term simio is sometimes used as a derogatory slur in Spanish to describe someone as primitive or uncivilized. Using grandes simios in a biological context is safe, but calling a person a simio is a significant insult.
- In Caribbean Spanish, the word gorila can be a colloquialism for a muscular or imposing man. Depending on the context, this can be a playful description rather than a strict insult.
Examples in context
- En este ecosistema, los grandes simios son fundamentales para mantener el equilibrio ecológico.In this ecosystem, great apes are fundamental for maintaining ecological balance.
- Los grandes simios son muy inteligentes.Great apes are very intelligent.
- Estamos estudiando a los grandes simios hoy.We are studying great apes today.
- Vimos fotos de los grandes simios en el libro.We saw photos of great apes in the book.
Example conversation
Alejandro and Sofía are watching a nature documentary at home.
- Alejandro¿Te gustan los grandes simios, Sofía?Do you like great apes, Sofía?
- SofíaSí, Alejandro, me parecen fascinantes.Yes, Alejandro, I find them fascinating.
- AlejandroEste documental sobre grandes simios es muy bueno.This documentary about great apes is very good.
- SofíaTienes razón, es muy interesante.You are right, it is very interesting.
Sources
- IPA marked “from spelling rules” is derived from standard Spanish spelling, where Wiktionary gives none.
