dogon: meaning, definition, pronunciation and examples
A1Neutral to informal (depending on usage)
Quick answer
What does “dogon” mean?
A domesticated carnivorous mammal, typically kept as a pet or for work/hunting.
Audio
Pronunciation
Definition
Meaning and Definition
A domesticated carnivorous mammal, typically kept as a pet or for work/hunting.
To follow someone persistently or closely; to cause ongoing trouble or misfortune.
Dialectal Variation
British vs American Usage
Differences
Minor spelling differences in compound words (e.g., doghouse vs kennel). The verb 'to dog' is slightly more common in US English. Specific breed names may differ slightly (e.g., 'Alsatian' is common UK for 'German Shepherd').
Connotations
Largely identical. 'Dog' as a metaphor for a man ('you lucky dog') is more common in US English.
Frequency
Equally frequent as a noun. The phrasal verb 'dog it' (to perform lazily) is primarily US.
Grammar
How to Use “dogon” in a Sentence
[verb] a dog (e.g., walk, feed)[adjective] dog (e.g., stray, loyal)dog [verb-ing] someone (e.g., dogging his footsteps)be dogged by [noun] (e.g., dogged by misfortune)Vocabulary
Collocations
Examples
Examples of “dogon” in a Sentence
verb
British English
- Rumours have dogged the minister since the scandal.
- He was dogged by injuries throughout the season.
American English
- The reporter dogged the celebrity for a comment.
- Problems have dogged the project from the start.
adverb
British English
- (Rare as a standalone adverb; appears in compounds like 'dog-tired')
American English
- (Rare as a standalone adverb; appears in compounds like 'dog-gedly')
adjective
British English
- He felt dog tired after the marathon.
American English
- It was a dog-ugly building.
Usage
Meaning in Context
Business
Used metaphorically: 'a dog of a stock' (poor performer), 'dog-eat-dog world' (ruthlessly competitive).
Academic
Appears in biological/zoological contexts. The verb form appears in literary analysis (e.g., 'a sense of guilt dogs the protagonist').
Everyday
Very common for discussing pets, animals, or informally describing persistent problems ('Bad luck dogged the team').
Technical
In computing: 'watchdog timer'; in engineering: 'dog clutch'; in sailing: 'dog watch'.
Watch out
Common Mistakes When Using “dogon”
- Using 'he/she' for a dog of unknown gender (use 'it' unless the gender is known and relevant).
- Incorrect plural in compounds: 'dog show' not 'dogs show'.
- Confusing 'hot dog' (food) with an actual overheated animal.
FAQ
Frequently Asked Questions
Yes, when referring to a person's appearance or character (e.g., 'He's an old dog'), it is derogatory and insulting. However, phrases like 'you lucky dog' can be friendly and informal.
'Puppy' (or 'pup') refers specifically to a young dog, typically under one year old. 'Dog' is the general term for the animal at any age.
Yes, it means to follow someone closely and persistently or to cause continual problems for someone (e.g., 'She was dogged by bad luck'). This usage is more common in writing and formal speech than in casual conversation.
It is an informal idiom meaning to be in trouble or disfavoured with someone, often a spouse or partner, usually for a minor offence.
A domesticated carnivorous mammal, typically kept as a pet or for work/hunting.
Dogon is usually neutral to informal (depending on usage) in register.
Dogon: in British English it is pronounced /dɒɡ/, and in American English it is pronounced /dɔːɡ/ (also /dɑːɡ/ in some regions). Tap the audio buttons above to hear it.
Phrases
Idioms & Phrases
- “let sleeping dogs lie”
- “every dog has its day”
- “it's a dog's life”
- “dog-eat-dog”
- “in the doghouse”
Learning
Memory Aids
Mnemonic
DOG = Dependable Old Friend, Often Generous. It barks 'woof' which sounds a bit like 'roof' - where a doghouse is.
Conceptual Metaphor
LOYALTY IS A DOG (faithful companion), TROUBLE IS A DOG (something that follows you), LOW STATUS/UGLINESS IS A DOG (derogatory term).
Practice
Quiz
What does the idiom 'let sleeping dogs lie' mean?