marquesas islands: meaning, definition, pronunciation and examples
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What does “marquesas islands” mean?
A volcanic archipelago in French Polynesia, forming one of the five administrative divisions of the territory, known for their dramatic landscapes and Polynesian culture.
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Pronunciation
Definition
Meaning and Definition
A volcanic archipelago in French Polynesia, forming one of the five administrative divisions of the territory, known for their dramatic landscapes and Polynesian culture.
The term can refer geographically to the island group itself, culturally to its indigenous Polynesian inhabitants and their distinct language and artistic traditions (Marquesan), and historically as a site of early European contact and subsequent colonial influence.
Dialectal Variation
British vs American Usage
Differences
No significant lexical differences; both use the full name 'Marquesas Islands'. Pronunciation differences exist (see IPA).
Connotations
Associated with exploration, remoteness, and Polynesian anthropology in both varieties.
Frequency
Equally low frequency in both dialects, primarily appearing in geographical, historical, or travel-related contexts.
Grammar
How to Use “marquesas islands” in a Sentence
[Verb] + the Marquesas Islands (e.g., visit, explore, sail to)Located in + the Marquesas IslandsThe Marquesas Islands + [Verb] (e.g., are known for, comprise...)Vocabulary
Collocations
Examples
Examples of “marquesas islands” in a Sentence
adjective
British English
- The Marquesan wood carvings are highly prized.
- We studied Marquesan linguistic history.
American English
- The Marquesan tattoo artistry is renowned.
- He collects Marquesan archaeological artifacts.
Usage
Meaning in Context
Business
Rare, except in niche contexts like tourism or documentary filmmaking (e.g., 'Our cruise line added a stop in the Marquesas Islands.').
Academic
Common in geography, anthropology, and Pacific history texts (e.g., 'The settlement patterns of the Marquesas Islands show distinct phases.').
Everyday
Used in travel discussions, documentaries, or general knowledge (e.g., 'He's always wanted to visit the Marquesas Islands.').
Technical
Used in geology, oceanography, and environmental studies referring to the specific island chain (e.g., 'The volcanic formation of the Marquesas Islands creates a unique ecosystem.').
Watch out
Common Mistakes When Using “marquesas islands”
- Misspelling as 'Marquezas', 'Marqueses', or 'Marquises'.
- Incorrect capitalisation (e.g., 'marquesas islands').
- Omitting the definite article 'the' in formal writing (The Marquesas Islands).
FAQ
Frequently Asked Questions
They are located in the South Pacific Ocean, approximately 1,400 km northeast of Tahiti, and form part of French Polynesia.
The islands were first encountered by Europeans when Spanish explorer Álvaro de Mendaña de Neira reached them in 1595. They were named after the Spanish viceroy of Peru, the Marquis of Cañete (García Hurtado de Mendoza).
They are renowned for their dramatic volcanic landscapes with steep cliffs, deep valleys, and a distinct Polynesian culture known for intricate tattoo art, stone tiki sculptures, and wood carving.
No, the Marquesas Islands are not an independent country. They are an overseas collectivity of France, part of the wider territory of French Polynesia, which has a degree of self-governance but whose defence and foreign affairs are managed by France.
A volcanic archipelago in French Polynesia, forming one of the five administrative divisions of the territory, known for their dramatic landscapes and Polynesian culture.
Marquesas islands is usually formal/neutral in register.
Marquesas islands: in British English it is pronounced /mɑːˈkeɪsəs ˈaɪləndz/, and in American English it is pronounced /mɑːrˈkeɪsəs ˈaɪləndz/. Tap the audio buttons above to hear it.
Phrases
Idioms & Phrases
- “[None specific to this proper noun]”
Learning
Memory Aids
Mnemonic
Imagine a MARQUE (a fancy tent or pavilion) in the SEA. The Marquesas Islands are like grand, dramatic tents rising from the sea.
Conceptual Metaphor
ISLANDS AS REMOTE OUTPOSTS; ISLANDS AS CULTURAL TREASURE CHESTS.
Practice
Quiz
What is the indigenous Polynesian name for the Marquesas Islands?