Usage Note
singe covers both monkeys and apes in common usage; scientists distinguish singe (monkey) from grand singe (ape). The phrase faire le singe means 'to act the fool' or 'to clown around'. Singer (verb) means 'to mimic' or 'to ape' someone.
Examples
"Le singe grimpe aux arbres avec agilité."
Natural Translation
The monkey climbs trees with agility.
Literal Translation
The monkey climbs to-the trees with agility
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