macaque
C1Technical/Scientific
Definition
Meaning
A medium-sized monkey with a sturdy build, a short tail or no tail, and cheek pouches, native to Asia and Gibraltar.
Any of various Old World monkeys of the genus Macaca, often used in medical and psychological research due to their physiological similarity to humans.
Linguistics
Semantic Notes
The term is specific to primatology and zoology. It often carries connotations of laboratory research when used outside biological contexts.
Dialectal Variation
British vs American Usage
Differences
No significant differences in meaning or usage. Spelling and pronunciation are consistent.
Connotations
Neutral in both varieties; primarily a scientific/zoological term.
Frequency
Equally low-frequency in both dialects, appearing mainly in scientific, academic, or wildlife contexts.
Vocabulary
Collocations
Grammar
Valency Patterns
The [ADJECTIVE] macaque [VERBed] in the [LOCATION].Vocabulary
Synonyms
Strong
Neutral
Weak
Vocabulary
Antonyms
Phrases
Idioms & Phrases
- “None”
Usage
Context Usage
Business
Rare, except in biotechnology or pharmaceutical contexts discussing animal testing.
Academic
Common in biology, zoology, psychology, and medical research papers.
Everyday
Very rare; might occur in nature documentaries or news about wildlife.
Technical
Standard term in primatology, veterinary science, and laboratory science.
Examples
By CEFR Level
- We saw a macaque at the zoo.
- The macaque is a type of monkey that lives in Asia.
- Researchers observed the social behaviour of a troop of Japanese macaques.
- The rhesus macaque has been a crucial model organism in the development of polio and COVID-19 vaccines.
Learning
Memory Aids
Mnemonic
Imagine a monkey with a MACAW's colourful cheeks – a MACAQUE.
Conceptual Metaphor
None common.
Watch out
Common Pitfalls
Translation Traps (for Russian speakers)
- Do not confuse with 'макака' (makaka) – it is the same word and a correct translation.
- Avoid using broader terms like 'обезьяна' (obezyana - monkey) when specificity about the genus Macaca is required.
Common Mistakes
- Misspelling as 'macaq', 'macawque', or 'macaquee'.
- Mispronouncing with stress on the first syllable (/ˈmækək/).
Practice
Quiz
Where is the Barbary macaque naturally found?
FAQ
Frequently Asked Questions
A macaque is a monkey, specifically an Old World monkey, not an ape. Apes (like gorillas and chimpanzees) lack tails.
The rhesus macaque is arguably the most famous due to its extensive use in medical and biological research (e.g., the 'Rh factor' in blood is named after it).
Wild macaques can be aggressive, especially if provoked or if they associate humans with food. They are wild animals and should be treated with caution.
No, macaques are not suitable pets. They are complex wild animals with specific social and physical needs, can be dangerous, and it is illegal in many places without special permits.