African dwarf crocodile (english) - meaning, definition, translation, pronunciation

Part of Speech

Noun

Phonetic Transcription

/ˈæfrɪkən dwɔrf ˈkrɒkədaɪl/

Meaning and Usage

The African dwarf crocodile (Osteolaemus tetraspis) is a small species of crocodile native to the freshwater habitats of West and Central Africa. It is one of the smallest crocodile species, typically reaching lengths of about 1.5 to 2 meters (around 5 to 6.5 feet). In English, the term is used primarily in zoological contexts and discussions about wildlife, conservation, and ecology.

The term is not frequently used in everyday language and is more common in written contexts, such as academic papers, wildlife documentaries, and conservation literature.

Example Sentences

1. The African dwarf crocodile is often found in slow-moving rivers and swamps throughout its habitat.

2. Африканский карликовый крокодил часто встречается в медленно течущих реках и болотах своей среды обитания.

3. Researchers studied the behavior of the African dwarf crocodile to learn more about its feeding habits.

4. Исследователи изучили поведение африканского карликового крокодила, чтобы узнать больше о его пищевых привычках.

5. Conservation efforts are critical for the survival of the African dwarf crocodile, which is under threat from habitat loss.

6. Усилия по охране окружающей среды крайне важны для выживания африканского карликового крокодила, который находится под угрозой из-за потери местообитаний.

Idiomatic Expressions

The term "crocodile" is often used in idiomatic expressions, primarily in metaphorical contexts. Here are several examples:

1. "Crocodile tears" are often shed by those who feign sorrow or regret.

2. «Крокодилиные слёзы» часто проливаются теми, кто притворяется, что скорбит или сожалеет.

3. "In the crocodile's mouth" can describe being in a perilous or risky situation.

4. «В крокодильей пасти» может означать оказаться в опасной или рискованной ситуации.

5. "Like a crocodile in a bathtub" refers to someone who seems out of place or uncomfortable in their environment.

6. «Как крокодил в ванной» означает, что кто-то кажется неуместным или некомфортным в своей среде.

Etymology

The term "crocodile" comes from the Ancient Greek word "krokodilos," which means "lizard." It was adopted into Latin as "crocodilus," and then into Old French before entering the English language. The adjective "African" denotes the continent of origin, derived from the Latin "Africa."

Synonyms and Antonyms

Synonyms: - Croc - Alligator (though technically different species)

Antonyms: - There are no direct antonyms for "African dwarf crocodile" as it refers specifically to a species, but in a broader context, "terrestrial reptiles" (like lizards) can be considered unrelated taxa.