Translation guide
The English word 'ape' refers to a type of primate, typically larger and tailless, distinct from monkeys. In Japanese, the most common equivalent is 類人猿 (ruijin'en), but everyday usage often uses 猿 (saru) for both monkeys and apes. This guide helps learners choose the right term based on context.
Referring to apes as a biological group, distinct from monkeys.
The standard biological term for 'ape', including chimpanzees, gorillas, orangutans, etc. Used in scientific and educational contexts.
類人猿は尾がない。
Apes do not have tails.
チンパンジーは類人猿の一種です。
Chimpanzees are a type of ape.
Commonly used for both monkeys and apes in everyday Japanese. Context usually clarifies the meaning. If you need to be precise, use 類人猿.
Can be ambiguous; may refer to monkeys as well.
動物園で猿を見た。
I saw an ape/monkey at the zoo.
Loanword from English, used in some contexts like movie titles or brand names, but not common in everyday speech.
『猿の惑星』の原題は『Planet of the Apes』です。
The original title of 'Planet of the Apes' is 'Planet of the Apes'.
Referring to a particular kind of ape, such as gorilla or chimpanzee.
Gorilla. Well-known and commonly used.
ゴリラは類人猿の中で最も大きい。
Gorillas are the largest of the apes.
Bonobo. A less well-known ape species, used mainly in scientific contexts.
ボノボは平和的な社会を作る。
Bonobos form peaceful societies.
Using 'ape' as a verb meaning to copy someone's behavior, often in a clumsy or mocking way.
General verb for 'to imitate' or 'to copy'. Can be used for both positive and negative imitation.
彼は先生の話し方を真似た。
He aped the teacher's way of speaking.
Literally 'to do monkey imitation', meaning to mimic someone without understanding, often in a derogatory sense. Closer to the English 'ape' as a verb.
彼はただ上司の猿真似をしているだけだ。
He's just aping his boss.
To do an impression or mimicry, often for entertainment. Can be used for aping someone's voice or mannerisms.
彼女は有名人の物真似をするのが得意だ。
She is good at aping celebrities.
In everyday Japanese, 猿 (saru) can refer to both monkeys and apes. If you need to be scientifically accurate, use 類人猿 (ruijin'en). In most casual contexts, 猿 is sufficient and understood from context.
あの猿は尾がないから、類人猿だね。
That monkey/ape doesn't have a tail, so it's an ape.
類人猿 (ruijin'en) specifically means 'ape' (tailless primate). 猿 (saru) is a broader term that includes both monkeys and apes. Use 類人猿 in formal or scientific discussions; use 猿 in daily life when the distinction is not crucial.
ゴリラとチンパンジーは類人猿です。
Gorillas and chimpanzees are apes.
彼は兄のしぐさを真似た。
He aped his brother's gestures.
Chimpanzee. Commonly used in both casual and educational contexts.
チンパンジーは道具を使う。
Chimpanzees use tools.
Orangutan. Less common in daily conversation but recognized.
オランウータンはボルネオ島に生息している。
Orangutans live on the island of Borneo.