What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
gibbon
Example
The gibbon swung from branch to branch with ease. [gibbon: noun]
Example
We heard the gibbon's loud calls echoing through the forest. [gibbon's: possessive adjective]
ape
Example
The zoo had a variety of apes on display, including chimpanzees and orangutans. [apes: plural noun]
Example
The silverback gorilla was the largest ape in the exhibit. [ape: singular noun]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Ape is a more commonly used term than gibbon in everyday language. Ape is a broad term that encompasses several species of primates, while gibbon refers to a specific type of small ape found in Southeast Asia.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between gibbon and ape?
Both gibbon and ape are formal terms used in scientific and academic contexts. However, ape is more versatile and can be used in both formal and informal settings, while gibbon is less common and typically used in more formal contexts.
