C1noun 3K

Monk

UK /["/mʌŋk/"]/ US /["/mʌŋk/"]/ Pronunciation

Definition

a member of a religious group of men who often live apart from other people in a monastery and who do not marry or have personal possessions

Listen to definition

In simple words: A religious man who lives apart from the world, usually in a monastery.

Examples

• **Benedictine/Buddhist monks**

Usage notes

Used in both formal and informal contexts, often when discussing religion, spirituality, or specific cultures. Not commonly used in casual conversation unless relevant.

Grammar pattern

standalone noun

Memory hint

Think of a 'monk' living in a 'monastery', both start with 'm'.

Collocations

• Buddhist
• Tibetan
• Zen
• become
• chant

Synonyms

• friar
• mendicant
• ascetic
• hermit

Antonyms

• layperson
• secular

Common mistakes

• Confused with 'monk' vs 'monk's' (possessive form)
• Incorrectly assumes all monks are associated with one religion
• Used inappropriately in non-religious contexts