lhasa apso: meaning, definition, pronunciation and examples
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Quick answer
What does “lhasa apso” mean?
A small, long-haired dog breed originating from Tibet, historically bred as an indoor watchdog in monasteries.
Audio
Pronunciation
Definition
Meaning and Definition
A small, long-haired dog breed originating from Tibet, historically bred as an indoor watchdog in monasteries.
A domesticated companion animal known for its loyalty, distinctive coat, and alert demeanor; can be used as a cultural reference to Tibetan or Himalayan heritage.
Dialectal Variation
British vs American Usage
Differences
No significant difference in the primary meaning or use. Spelling and pronunciation are consistent across varieties.
Connotations
Generally associated with pet owners, dog shows, and specific dog enthusiasts. Connotations of luxury or exoticism may be slightly stronger in American contexts due to marketing.
Frequency
Equally low-frequency in both varieties. Known primarily within dog-breeding and pet-owning communities.
Grammar
How to Use “lhasa apso” in a Sentence
own a Lhasa Apsobreed Lhasa Apsoswalk the Lhasa ApsoVocabulary
Collocations
Examples
Examples of “lhasa apso” in a Sentence
adjective
British English
- He has a typical Lhasa Apso temperament.
- The Lhasa Apso standard specifies certain proportions.
American English
- She bought a Lhasa Apso grooming kit.
- That's very Lhasa Apso-like behavior.
Usage
Meaning in Context
Business
Only in contexts like pet industry marketing or veterinary business.
Academic
In historical or cultural studies discussing Tibetan breeding practices.
Everyday
In conversations about pets, dog breeds, or personal anecdotes.
Technical
In veterinary medicine, kennel club registrations, and dog show classifications.
Vocabulary
Synonyms of “lhasa apso”
Neutral
Weak
Watch out
Common Mistakes When Using “lhasa apso”
- Incorrect capitalization ('lhasa apso'), treating it as a common noun rather than a proper breed name.
- Misspelling as 'Lhassa Apso' or 'Lasa Apso'.
- Confusing it with the similar-looking Shih Tzu.
FAQ
Frequently Asked Questions
It can be, but they are often better suited to households with older children due to their sometimes independent and wary nature.
It comes from Lhasa, the capital city of Tibet, and 'apso', a Tibetan word meaning something like 'bearded' or 'goat-like', referring to the coat.
Commonly as /ˌlɑːsə ˈæpsəʊ/ (LAH-suh AP-so). The 'h' in Lhasa is silent.
They are distinct breeds with different origins (Tibet vs. China). Shih Tzus generally have a slightly shorter muzzle and a more pronounced underbite, and the breed standards for body proportion and tail carriage differ.
A small, long-haired dog breed originating from Tibet, historically bred as an indoor watchdog in monasteries.
Lhasa apso is usually neutral in register.
Learning
Memory Aids
Mnemonic
Think: 'Lhasa' is the capital of Tibet; 'Apso' sounds like 'lasso' – a dog from Lhasa that might have a long, lasso-like coat.
Conceptual Metaphor
WATCHFULNESS IS A LHASA APSO (due to its historical role as an alert indoor sentinel).
Practice
Quiz
What is the primary historical function of the Lhasa Apso?