canary islands: meaning, definition, pronunciation and examples
B2Formal (geographical, political, travel contexts); Neutral (general reference).
Quick answer
What does “canary islands” mean?
A Spanish archipelago located in the Atlantic Ocean, off the coast of northwestern Africa, known for its volcanic landscapes and tourism.
Audio
Pronunciation
Definition
Meaning and Definition
A Spanish archipelago located in the Atlantic Ocean, off the coast of northwestern Africa, known for its volcanic landscapes and tourism.
Refers collectively to the autonomous community of Spain comprising the islands, often associated with a subtropical climate, specific cultural identity, and as a geographical entity distinct from mainland Spain.
Dialectal Variation
British vs American Usage
Differences
No significant difference in meaning or usage. Both refer to the same archipelago.
Connotations
In both varieties, strongly associated with tourism, winter sun holidays, and volcanic geography.
Frequency
Comparable frequency in both dialects, primarily in geographical, travel, and news contexts.
Grammar
How to Use “canary islands” in a Sentence
[preposition] + the Canary Islands (e.g., in, to, from)the Canary Islands + [verb] (e.g., are located, attract, offer)Vocabulary
Collocations
Examples
Examples of “canary islands” in a Sentence
verb
British English
- The couple decided to **Canary-Island** their winter, opting for Tenerife over Cornwall.
American English
- They're planning to **Canary Island** next February to escape the cold.
adverb
British English
- They travelled **Canary-Islands-ward** for some winter sun.
American English
- The weather system moved **Canary-Islands-style**, bringing mild air northwards.
adjective
British English
- The **Canary-Island** climate is remarkably stable year-round.
American English
- She brought back some beautiful **Canary Islands** pottery.
Usage
Meaning in Context
Business
In tourism, real estate, and export (e.g., bananas, tomatoes) contexts.
Academic
In geography, volcanology, environmental studies, and Spanish political studies.
Everyday
In travel plans, holiday discussions, and general knowledge.
Technical
In meteorological reports (e.g., 'Canary Island eddy'), volcanology, and maritime navigation.
Vocabulary
Synonyms of “canary islands”
Strong
Neutral
Weak
Vocabulary
Antonyms of “canary islands”
Watch out
Common Mistakes When Using “canary islands”
- Using singular 'Canary Island' (incorrect for the archipelago). Saying 'Canaries Islands' (redundant). Confusing the origin of the name with the bird.
FAQ
Frequently Asked Questions
Yes, as an autonomous community of Spain, they are part of the EU, but with special status regarding VAT and some trade regulations due to their remote location.
The community has two capitals: Santa Cruz de Tenerife and Las Palmas de Gran Canaria, which share governmental institutions.
Yes, 'the Canaries' is a common and acceptable informal short form, especially in British English (e.g., 'We're off to the Canaries in January').
Spanish is the official language. The Canarian dialect has distinct pronunciations and some unique vocabulary. Silbo Gomero, a whistled language, is used on La Gomera.
A Spanish archipelago located in the Atlantic Ocean, off the coast of northwestern Africa, known for its volcanic landscapes and tourism.
Canary islands is usually formal (geographical, political, travel contexts); neutral (general reference). in register.
Canary islands: in British English it is pronounced /kəˈneə.ri ˈaɪ.ləndz/, and in American English it is pronounced /kəˈner.i ˈaɪ.ləndz/. Tap the audio buttons above to hear it.
Phrases
Idioms & Phrases
- “No direct idioms. Potential metaphorical use: 'a Canary Islands climate' meaning a perpetually mild, spring-like climate.”
Learning
Memory Aids
Mnemonic
Think: 'CAN A RY (row) boat reach the ISLANDS?' - connects the name to its island nature.
Conceptual Metaphor
Source of warmth and escape (e.g., 'Our financial Canary Islands' meaning a safe, warm investment).
Practice
Quiz
What is the origin of the name 'Canary Islands'?