monaco: meaning, definition, pronunciation and examples
B1Formal/Neutral, with extended uses in informal contexts (e.g., sports, lifestyle).
Quick answer
What does “monaco” mean?
A proper noun primarily referring to a small, sovereign principality on the French Riviera in Western Europe.
Audio
Pronunciation
Definition
Meaning and Definition
A proper noun primarily referring to a small, sovereign principality on the French Riviera in Western Europe.
May refer to the Monaco Grand Prix (a prestigious Formula One motor race held there), the ruling Grimaldi family, or by extension, a symbol of luxury, high-stakes gambling (from the Monte Carlo Casino), and tax haven status.
Dialectal Variation
British vs American Usage
Differences
No significant difference in meaning or usage.
Connotations
Connotations of luxury, Formula One, and tax avoidance are consistent globally.
Frequency
Slightly higher frequency in UK English due to greater general coverage of European geography and the strong British involvement in Formula One.
Grammar
How to Use “monaco” in a Sentence
[PREP] in Monaco[PREP] to Monaco[DET] Monaco Grand Prix[POSS] Monaco propertyVocabulary
Collocations
Examples
Examples of “monaco” in a Sentence
adjective
British English
- a Monaco-based company
- the Monaco Grand Prix
American English
- Monaco-specific regulations
- a Monaco-style lifestyle
Usage
Meaning in Context
Business
Referring to its status as a financial centre or tax haven: 'The company is headquartered in Monaco for fiscal advantages.'
Academic
In geography, politics, or economics: 'Monaco's sovereignty was formally recognised by the Franco-Monegasque Treaty of 1861.'
Everyday
Discussing travel, sports, or wealth: 'We watched the Monaco Grand Prix on TV.' 'He dreams of holidaying in Monaco.'
Technical
In motorsport engineering or event management: 'The Monaco circuit is the most demanding on the F1 calendar.'
Vocabulary
Synonyms of “monaco”
Neutral
Watch out
Common Mistakes When Using “monaco”
- Using lowercase 'monaco'.
- Using articles incorrectly (e.g., 'the Monaco' is usually wrong, except in cases like 'the Monaco of the East' – a metaphorical nickname).
FAQ
Frequently Asked Questions
Yes, Monaco is a sovereign city-state and microstate, though its foreign policy is closely aligned with France.
Monaco-Ville (the historic fortified old town), though the Monte Carlo district is more internationally famous.
It is famous for its luxury, the Monte Carlo Casino, the Monaco Grand Prix, its royal family, and its status as a tax haven.
As it has an open border with France, Monaco's visa policy is the same as the Schengen Area. A Schengen visa allows entry.
A proper noun primarily referring to a small, sovereign principality on the French Riviera in Western Europe.
Monaco is usually formal/neutral, with extended uses in informal contexts (e.g., sports, lifestyle). in register.
Monaco: in British English it is pronounced /ˈmɒnəkəʊ/, and in American English it is pronounced /ˈmɑːnəkoʊ/. Tap the audio buttons above to hear it.
Learning
Memory Aids
Mnemonic
Imagine a MONArch living in a small COastal country → Monaco.
Conceptual Metaphor
Monaco is a jewel/playground (for the rich and famous).
Practice
Quiz
What is a primary connotation associated with Monaco?