western lowland gorilla: meaning, definition, pronunciation and examples
C1formal, technical, zoological
Quick answer
What does “western lowland gorilla” mean?
A subspecies of gorilla (Gorilla gorilla gorilla) native to the rainforests of central Africa west of the Congo River, characterized by a stocky build, black or brownish-grey fur, and a wide, muscular neck.
Audio
Pronunciation
Definition
Meaning and Definition
A subspecies of gorilla (Gorilla gorilla gorilla) native to the rainforests of central Africa west of the Congo River, characterized by a stocky build, black or brownish-grey fur, and a wide, muscular neck.
The most numerous and widespread subspecies of gorilla, often the one seen in zoos; a symbol of endangered wildlife, conservation efforts, and primate intelligence.
Dialectal Variation
British vs American Usage
Differences
No significant lexical differences. Spelling of related words may differ (e.g., 'behaviour' vs. 'behavior').
Connotations
Identical scientific and conservation connotations.
Frequency
Equally low-frequency outside specific contexts like zoology, documentaries, or conservation news.
Grammar
How to Use “western lowland gorilla” in a Sentence
The [western lowland gorilla] is [endangered].Researchers are [studying] [western lowland gorillas] in [Gabon].Vocabulary
Collocations
Examples
Examples of “western lowland gorilla” in a Sentence
adjective
British English
- The western lowland gorilla population is declining.
- We watched a western lowland gorilla documentary.
American English
- The western lowland gorilla population is declining.
- We watched a western lowland gorilla documentary.
Usage
Meaning in Context
Business
Rare; possibly in context of ecotourism or conservation funding.
Academic
Common in biology, zoology, ecology, and conservation science papers.
Everyday
Rare; used in nature documentaries, zoo visits, or news about wildlife.
Technical
Standard taxonomic and zoological term.
Vocabulary
Synonyms of “western lowland gorilla”
Vocabulary
Antonyms of “western lowland gorilla”
Watch out
Common Mistakes When Using “western lowland gorilla”
- Misspelling as 'western lowlander gorilla'.
- Confusing it with the 'mountain gorilla' (Gorilla beringei beringei).
- Using it as a plural without adding 's' (e.g., 'a group of western lowland gorilla' is incorrect).
FAQ
Frequently Asked Questions
They are generally shy and peaceful but can be formidable and aggressive if threatened, especially silverback males protecting their group.
The primary threats are habitat destruction (logging, agriculture), poaching for bushmeat, and diseases like Ebola.
Exact numbers are uncertain due to their remote habitat, but estimates suggest around 100,000 to 200,000, though populations are declining rapidly.
No. It is illegal, highly unethical, and dangerous. They are wild, strong, intelligent animals with complex social needs and are protected by international law (CITES).
A subspecies of gorilla (Gorilla gorilla gorilla) native to the rainforests of central Africa west of the Congo River, characterized by a stocky build, black or brownish-grey fur, and a wide, muscular neck.
Western lowland gorilla is usually formal, technical, zoological in register.
Western lowland gorilla: in British English it is pronounced /ˌwes.tən ˈləʊ.lənd ɡəˈrɪl.ə/, and in American English it is pronounced /ˌwes.tɚn ˈloʊ.lənd ɡəˈrɪl.ə/. Tap the audio buttons above to hear it.
Learning
Memory Aids
Mnemonic
Think: 'West' of the Congo River, in the 'lowlands', not the mountains. The 'double G' in its scientific name Gorilla gorilla gorilla.
Conceptual Metaphor
A 'gentle giant' (despite its strength and potential fierceness if threatened).
Practice
Quiz
What primarily distinguishes a western lowland gorilla from a mountain gorilla?