Part of Speech

Noun

Phonetic Transcription

/pɪɡmi ˈfæl.ən.dʒər/

Meaning and Usage

A pygmy phalanger is a small, nocturnal marsupial belonging to the family Petauridae. They are native to New Guinea and surrounding islands and are notable for their large eyes and patagium (a membrane that extends from their forelimbs to their hindlimbs, enabling gliding). These animals are primarily arboreal, meaning they live in trees.

Pygmy phalangers have a relatively specialized habitat and feeding habits, as they primarily consume fruits and leaves. Their clinical status in the wild can vary, influencing conservation efforts.

The frequency of use of the term "pygmy phalanger" is generally low, as it is more often discussed in contexts of biology, conservation, and animal studies rather than in everyday conversation.

Example Sentences

1. The pygmy phalanger is known for its remarkable gliding abilities, which help it navigate the dense forests of New Guinea.

2. Пигмейский фалангер известен своими замечательными способностями к планированию, которые помогают ему ориентироваться в густых лесах Новой Гвинеи.

3. Conservationists are worried about the habitat loss affecting the pygmy phalanger population in their native regions.

4. Экологов беспокоит потеря местообитаний, влияющая на популяцию пигмейских фалангеров в их родных регионах.

5. Researchers have discovered that the pygmy phalanger has a unique diet mainly consisting of fruits and leaves.

6. Исследователи обнаружили, что пигмейский фалангер имеет уникальную диету, состоящую в основном из фруктов и листьев.

Idiomatic Expressions

The term "phalanger" is not commonly found in idiomatic expressions, given its specificity as a scientific term. However, we can explore idiomatic expressions related to small animals or gliding mechanisms.

1. "To glide through life like a gliding squirrel" means to move smoothly and effortlessly through circumstances.

2. "Летать по жизни, как планирующий белка," означает легко и непринужденно справляться с жизнью.

3. "Small but mighty" refers to something or someone small in size but powerful in effect, similar to the pygmy phalanger.

4. "Мал, но могуч" относится к чему-то или кому-то маленькому по размеру, но сильному по воздействию.

5. "To hang in the balance" describes a situation that is in a state of uncertainty or jeopardy, akin to the precariousness of a pygmy phalanger's habitat.

6. "Висеть на весах" описывает ситуацию, находящуюся в состоянии неопределенности или опасности, подобно уязвимости местообитания пигмейского фалангера.

Etymology

The word "phalanger" comes from the Latin "phalanga," which means "claw" or "the web of a wing." It refers to the unique anatomical features of these animals that allow them to glide. The term "pygmy" is derived from the Greek word "pygmaios," meaning "dwarf" or "very small," highlighting the size characteristic of these marsupials.

Synonyms and Antonyms

Synonyms: - None in specific terms referring to pygmy phalanger, but related terms include "glider" or "marsupial."

Antonyms: - There are no direct antonyms as this is a highly specific term, but in terms of size, one could use "giant" in a broader context (e.g., giant marsupial).

This structured and detailed account provides a comprehensive view of the term "pygmy phalanger" along with its related aspects.