lama
C1Formal, Specialized (Religion/Buddhism), Occasionally Informal/Humorous
Definition
Meaning
A Buddhist spiritual teacher, especially one of the Tibetan tradition.
Can also refer more generally to a priest or monk in Tibetan Buddhism. Informally and humorously, may be used for a person in a position of authority or a mentor.
Linguistics
Semantic Notes
The term implies high spiritual attainment and authority. The capitalized form 'Lama' is often used as an honorific title before a name (e.g., Lama Zopa).
Dialectal Variation
British vs American Usage
Differences
No significant differences in meaning or usage. Pronunciation may have slight regional variations, but both follow the source language.
Connotations
Both carry the same religious and cultural connotations. Potential for informal/humorous usage exists in both varieties.
Frequency
Equally low-frequency in both dialects, encountered primarily in contexts discussing Tibetan culture, Buddhism, or world religions.
Vocabulary
Collocations
Grammar
Valency Patterns
The lama [verb: taught, advised, presided over]...They consulted the lama about...Vocabulary
Synonyms
Strong
Neutral
Weak
Vocabulary
Antonyms
Phrases
Idioms & Phrases
- “(as) serene as a lama (informal, rare)”
Usage
Context Usage
Business
Virtually never used.
Academic
Used in religious studies, anthropology, and Asian studies contexts.
Everyday
Rare, except when referring to the Dalai Lama or in discussions of Buddhism.
Technical
Specific term in Tibetan Buddhist theology and hierarchy.
Examples
By CEFR Level
- The Dalai Lama is a famous spiritual leader.
- We learned about Buddhist lamas in our geography class.
- After years of study and meditation, he was recognised as a reincarnated lama.
- The senior lama gave a public talk on compassion in the modern world.
- The controversy centred on the process of identifying the legitimate incarnation of the late high lama.
- His scholarship delves into the intricate ceremonial roles performed by lamas within the monastic hierarchy.
Learning
Memory Aids
Mnemonic
The Dalai LAMA lives in the HIMALAYAs. Both words share the 'lama' sound.
Conceptual Metaphor
WISDOM IS A LIGHT (lamas are often metaphorically described as sources of light or illumination).
Watch out
Common Pitfalls
Translation Traps (for Russian speakers)
- Do not confuse with Russian 'лама' (llama, the animal). In English, 'lama' (teacher) and 'llama' (animal) are homophones but different words. Context is crucial.
- In English, the religious title is not declined like in Russian ('ламы', 'ламе'). It remains 'the lama', 'of the lama'.
Common Mistakes
- Misspelling as 'llama' when referring to the teacher.
- Incorrect capitalization: using 'lama' instead of 'Lama' as a title (e.g., 'Lama Yeshe').
Practice
Quiz
In which context is the word 'lama' most appropriately used?
FAQ
Frequently Asked Questions
Yes, the Dalai Lama is a specific and highly revered lama within the Gelug school of Tibetan Buddhism.
All lamas are monks, but not all monks are lamas. 'Lama' is a title denoting a teacher of high spiritual attainment or a recognised reincarnation, whereas 'monk' refers to any ordained male member of a Buddhist community.
It is pronounced /ˈlɑː.mə/, with the stress on the first syllable, rhyming with 'drama'. It is a homophone of the animal 'llama'.
When used as a general noun ('a Tibetan lama'), it is often lowercase. When used as an honorific title preceding a name (e.g., Lama Surya Das), it is capitalized.