What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
ape
Example
The zoo has a family of apes, including gorillas and chimpanzees. [ape: noun]
Example
He was imitating the ape's movements, swinging from branch to branch. [ape: verb]
monkey
Example
The children were excited to see the monkeys at the zoo, jumping and playing around. [monkeys: noun]
Example
She likes to monkey around on the playground, climbing and hanging from the bars. [monkey: verb]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Monkey is more commonly used than ape in everyday language. Monkey is a versatile term that covers a wide range of primate species, while ape is more specific and refers to a particular group of primates.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between ape and monkey?
While ape is typically associated with a more formal tone, monkey is more commonly used in both formal and informal contexts.
