animal
noun (countable)
UK/ˈæn.ɪ.məl/US/ˈæn.ə.məl/
A person who behaves in a wild or uncontrolled manner.
同義詞典
同義詞
反義詞
使用方式
A multicellular, eukaryotic organism belonging to the kingdom Animalia, characterized by voluntary movement, responsive behavior, and the consumption of organic material for energy.The term "animal" refers to a diverse group of living organisms that belong to the biological kingdom Animalia. Animals are multicellular, eukaryotic organisms that typically have specialized tissues and organs, including a nervous system that allows for responsive behavior. They exhibit voluntary movement, sensory perception, and consume organic material for energy, distinguishing them from plants, fungi, and microorganisms.Animals range from simple invertebrates, such as sponges and insects, to complex vertebrates, including mammals, birds, reptiles, amphibians, and fish. They inhabit virtually every environment on Earth, from deep oceans to arid deserts, and play crucial roles in ecosystems as producers, consumers, and decomposers. For example, bees pollinate plants, lions control herbivore populations, and earthworms aerate soil, demonstrating the interdependent relationships within ecological communities.In scientific classification, animals are organized into various phyla, classes, orders, families, genera, and species based on shared characteristics and evolutionary relationships. Understanding animal biology, behavior, and interactions is fundamental to fields such as zoology, ecology, and conservation biology, which seek to preserve biodiversity and maintain healthy ecosystems.Additionally, animals have significant cultural, economic, and emotional importance to humans. They are used as sources of food, clothing, labor, and companionship. Animals also feature prominently in art, literature, mythology, and religion, symbolizing various human values and beliefs.Overall, the study of animals encompasses their anatomy, physiology, behavior, genetics, and interactions with their environments, contributing to our broader understanding of life on Earth.
替代選項
When looking to express the concept of "animal," consider the following alternatives based on context:1. **Creature**: A general term for any living being, especially those not classified as plants. - Example: "The forest is home to many unique creatures."2. **Beast**: Often used to describe large or dangerous animals, sometimes with a negative connotation. - Example: "The lion is considered the king of the beasts."3. **Organism**: A scientific term referring to any living thing, including animals, plants, and microorganisms. - Example: "Each organism plays a role in the ecosystem."4. **Fauna**: Refers collectively to the animals of a particular region, habitat, or geological period. - Example: "The fauna of the Amazon rainforest is incredibly diverse."5. **Wildlife**: Used to describe undomesticated animals living in their natural environment. - Example: "The national park is a sanctuary for wildlife."6. **Living Being**: A broad term encompassing all forms of life. - Example: "Every living being has its place in the ecosystem."7. **Vertebrate/Invertebrate**: Specific terms referring to animals with or without a backbone. - Example: "Birds are vertebrates, while insects are invertebrates."Choosing the right alternative depends on the specific nuance and context in which "animal" is used, ensuring precise and effective communication.
寫作
In formal or academic writing, "animal" can be utilized to discuss biological classifications, ecological roles, or cultural significance. For example:- **Biological Context**: "Animals are classified into various phyla based on their structural and genetic characteristics, ranging from simple sponges to complex mammals." Here, "animal" is used in the context of taxonomy and biological diversity.- **Ecological Studies**: "The presence of apex predators, such as wolves and eagles, is crucial for maintaining the balance of ecosystems." In this sentence, "animal" can be inferred as apex predators, highlighting their role in ecological balance.- **Cultural Analysis**: "Animals have been symbolic representations in various cultures, often embodying traits such as strength, wisdom, and freedom." This usage explores the metaphorical and symbolic roles animals play in human societies.When writing about animals, it is important to specify the context—whether discussing scientific classifications, ecological interactions, or cultural representations—to ensure clarity and precision. Incorporating relevant examples, case studies, or statistical data can enhance the depth and credibility of the discussion.Additionally, discussing the ethical considerations related to animals, such as conservation efforts, animal rights, and the impact of human activities on wildlife, can provide a comprehensive understanding of the subject. For instance: "The decline in bee populations poses a significant threat to global agriculture, underscoring the urgent need for conservation measures." This sentence connects the concept of animals to broader environmental and societal issues.
日常對話
In everyday conversations, "animal" is often used to refer to any non-human living creature, whether wild or domesticated. For example:- **Talking about Pets**: "I love animals, especially my cat and dog."- **Wildlife Discussions**: "We saw a bunch of animals while hiking in the national park."- **General Use**: "There are so many amazing animals in the ocean."People also use "animal" in a more figurative or playful sense:- **Personality Traits**: "He can be a real animal when he's angry," meaning someone can be fierce or aggressive.- **Humorous Exaggeration**: "The kids were running around like animals at the birthday party." Additionally, "animal" can be part of idiomatic expressions or colloquial phrases, such as:- **Colloquial Phrases**: "He eats like an animal," indicating someone has a large appetite.Using "animal" casually can make descriptions vivid and relatable, whether discussing actual living creatures or using the term metaphorically to describe behavior or characteristics. It can also be used humorously or lightly, such as when jokingly saying, "I'm going to amuse myself by trying to bake a cake without a recipe," to indicate taking on a fun challenge.
詞源
The word "animal" traces its origins to the Latin word "animalis," meaning "having breath," derived from "anima," meaning "breath" or "soul." It entered the English language through Old French as "animal," retaining its fundamental meaning related to living beings. Historically, "animal" was used to distinguish living creatures from plants, objects, and inanimate matter, emphasizing the presence of life and vitality.In Middle English, the term maintained its association with living, breathing organisms, evolving to encompass a wide range of creatures from insects to mammals. Over time, the scope of "animal" has broadened in both scientific and colloquial contexts to include all non-human living beings, regardless of their complexity or habitat.The evolution of the word reflects humanity's growing understanding of biodiversity and the intricate relationships between different forms of life. Today, "animal" is a fundamental term in biology, ecology, and everyday language, symbolizing the vast array of living organisms that share the planet with humans.