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B1 noun (plural) #50 پرکاربردترین 12 دقیقه مطالعه

pigeons

رتبه 50

تمرین کن مثال‌ها نکات و راهنمایی‌ها pigeons در ۳۰ ثانیه

توضیح pigeons in your Level:

Pigeons are birds. You see them in the city and in the park. They are usually grey. They have short legs and walk with a funny head movement. Many people give them bread or seeds. They make a soft sound called 'coo'. You can see many pigeons together in a group. A group of pigeons is called a flock. Pigeons are very common, and you can find them in almost every country. They like to live near people because they can find food easily. If you go to a big city, you will see pigeons on the ground and on the buildings. They are not afraid of people. Sometimes they fly away if you get too close. They are simple birds that are part of city life.

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Pigeons are a type of bird that lives in both cities and the countryside. In cities, they are often called 'feral pigeons' because they live wild but near humans. They are famous for being able to find their way home from very far away. In the past, people used them to carry important letters; these were called 'carrier pigeons'. They usually eat seeds, grains, and sometimes small pieces of food that people leave behind. They are very good at flying and can move very fast. When they walk, they bob their heads back and forth. You can often hear them making a 'cooing' noise on balconies or roofs. Most pigeons are grey with some green or purple feathers on their necks.

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Pigeons are stout-bodied birds found worldwide, particularly in urban environments. They are members of the Columbidae family, which also includes doves. Pigeons are known for their distinctive cooing sounds and their unique way of walking, where they bob their heads to help their vision. Historically, they have been incredibly important to humans as messengers. Because of their natural 'homing instinct,' they can navigate back to their nests using the Earth's magnetic field and the position of the sun. In modern times, they are sometimes viewed as a nuisance in cities due to their droppings, but they are also kept as pets or used in the sport of pigeon racing. They are highly intelligent birds, capable of recognizing themselves in mirrors and even distinguishing between different human faces.

Pigeons, specifically the rock dove (Columba livia), have successfully colonized urban landscapes across the globe. Their ability to thrive in human-dominated environments is due to their ancestral origins as cliff-dwellers; modern skyscrapers and ledges provide an ideal substitute for rocky outcrops. While often stigmatized as 'pests' in metropolitan areas, pigeons possess remarkable cognitive abilities, including the capacity to solve complex mathematical problems and categorize objects. The term 'pigeons' also encompasses 'fancy pigeons,' which are bred for specific physical traits or performance. In literature and idioms, pigeons often represent vulnerability or, conversely, reliable communication. The distinction between a pigeon and a dove is primarily linguistic, with 'dove' often carrying a more positive, symbolic connotation of peace and purity.

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The term 'pigeons' refers to a diverse array of avian species within the family Columbidae, characterized by their physiological resilience and sophisticated navigational systems. Feral populations in urban centers are descendants of escaped domestic birds, showcasing a remarkable example of synanthropy—the ability of wild animals to benefit from living in close proximity to humans. Beyond their ecological role, pigeons have been instrumental in the development of behavioral psychology, notably through the work of B.F. Skinner and his experiments on operant conditioning. The linguistic nuances of the word extend into various idioms and technical fields, such as 'pigeonholing' in social categorization or 'squab' in gastronomy. Their historical contribution to military intelligence, particularly during the World Wars, underscores a symbiotic relationship with humanity that transcends their modern reputation as urban nuisances.

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Pigeons serve as a fascinating case study in evolutionary adaptation and human-animal co-dependency. The rock pigeon's transition from craggy coastal cliffs to the concrete canyons of modern megacities illustrates a profound ecological plasticity. In the realm of ornithology, the distinction between pigeons and doves is non-existent, yet the cultural semiotics of the two terms are vastly divergent, with the former often associated with urban decay and the latter with celestial peace. The physiological mechanisms underlying their homing capabilities—involving magnetoreception, olfactory mapping, and visual landmarks—remain a subject of intense scientific inquiry. Furthermore, the socio-economic history of 'pigeon fanciers' reveals a complex subculture that has influenced genetic breeding practices for centuries. To master the word 'pigeons' at this level is to appreciate its multifaceted role in ecology, history, psychology, and the cultural imagination.

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تمرین کن مثال‌ها نکات و راهنمایی‌ها

pigeons در ۳۰ ثانیه

Pigeons are common urban birds known for their stout bodies, short necks, and unique cooing sounds, often found in parks and city squares worldwide.
They possess a remarkable homing instinct, which historically made them invaluable as long-distance messengers during times of war and peace.
While often viewed as pests in modern cities, they are highly intelligent creatures capable of complex tasks and are celebrated in the hobby of pigeon racing.
The term 'pigeons' is often used interchangeably with 'doves,' though 'pigeons' typically refers to the larger, grey feral species found in metropolitan areas.

The word pigeons refers to a ubiquitous family of birds known scientifically as Columbidae. These creatures are characterized by their stout bodies, short necks, and slender bills with a fleshy protuberance called a cere. While often dismissed as mere 'rats with wings' in modern urban discourse, pigeons have a storied history that intertwines deeply with human civilization. They are primarily found in cities, where they have adapted to live on ledges and rooftops that mimic their ancestral cliff-dwelling habitats. People use this word most frequently when discussing urban wildlife, park activities, or historical communication methods. The term encompasses a wide variety of species, though in common parlance, it almost always refers to the feral rock pigeon.

Biological Classification: Pigeons belong to the order Columbiformes. There is no strict biological distinction between 'pigeons' and 'doves,' though smaller species are often called doves and larger ones pigeons.

The city square was absolutely teeming with pigeons waiting for tourists to drop crumbs.

In a social context, pigeons are often the subject of both affection and frustration. Birdwatchers might admire the iridescent feathers on their necks, which shimmer with shades of green and purple, while city officials might struggle with the corrosive nature of their droppings on historical monuments. When someone mentions pigeons, they might be referring to the hobby of pigeon racing, a sport with a dedicated global following, or the historical use of carrier pigeons during wartime. These birds possess an extraordinary 'homing' instinct, allowing them to navigate across hundreds of miles to return to their nests, a feat that made them invaluable before the advent of electronic communication.

Urban Adaptation: Pigeons have thrived in human environments because our architecture provides perfect nesting sites and our waste provides a constant food source.

Scientists are studying how pigeons navigate using the Earth's magnetic field.

Furthermore, the word is used metaphorically in various idioms. To 'pigeonhole' someone is to assign them to a rigid category, often unfairly. This stems from the physical pigeonholes used in desks or mailrooms to sort documents. Understanding the word 'pigeons' requires recognizing its dual nature: as a biological entity and as a cultural symbol of both urban grit and historical reliability. Whether they are seen as pests or as 'the poor man's thoroughbreds' in racing, pigeons remain one of the most successful and visible avian species on the planet.

During the Great War, pigeons saved thousands of lives by delivering messages across enemy lines.

Symbolism: While white pigeons are often called doves and symbolize peace, the common grey pigeon is often a symbol of urban resilience.

I watched the pigeons bobbing their heads as they walked along the pavement.

Many people enjoy feeding pigeons in Trafalgar Square, despite the local bans.

Using the word pigeons correctly involves understanding its role as a plural count noun. It typically functions as the subject or object of a sentence. Because pigeons are social birds, you will often find the word paired with collective nouns like 'flock' or 'group.' When describing their actions, specific verbs such as 'coo,' 'flutter,' 'perch,' and 'scavenge' are highly effective. For example, 'A flock of pigeons perches on the old cathedral.' Here, the word 'pigeons' is the object of the preposition 'of,' while 'flock' acts as the singular subject. This is a common point of grammatical confusion for learners.

Collective Nouns: A flock, a flight, or a kit of pigeons. 'Kit' is specifically used for a group of pigeons flying together in a coordinated way.

The pigeons scattered in every direction when the young child ran toward them.

Adjectives used with 'pigeons' often describe their appearance or their perceived status in the environment. You might hear 'feral pigeons' to describe those living wild in cities, or 'fancy pigeons' to describe those bred for competition or show. In descriptive writing, you can use sensory adjectives: 'The iridescent pigeons,' 'the cooing pigeons,' or 'the plump pigeons.' When discussing them as a nuisance, words like 'pestilential' or 'invasive' might appear in more formal or critical texts. However, in a neutral or positive context, 'homing pigeons' or 'carrier pigeons' are the standard terms for birds trained for navigation.

Action Verbs: Cooing (making sound), Roosting (sleeping/resting), Foraging (searching for food), and Swooping (flying down quickly).

We could hear the pigeons cooing softly under the eaves of the house all morning.

In more complex sentence structures, 'pigeons' can be part of idiomatic expressions that function as metaphors. For instance, 'to set the cat among the pigeons' means to do or say something that causes a lot of trouble or worry. When using this, 'pigeons' represents a group of people who are suddenly disturbed or alarmed. Another example is 'pigeon-toed,' an adjective describing someone whose toes point inward, resembling the stance of a pigeon. Using these variations shows a high level of English proficiency, moving beyond simple bird identification into the realm of figurative language.

By announcing the budget cuts early, the manager really set the cat among the pigeons.

Compound Words: Pigeon-hole (verb/noun), Pigeon-chest (medical term), Wood-pigeon (specific species).

The old man spent his afternoons in the park, his coat pockets filled with seeds for the pigeons.

There were hundreds of pigeons nesting in the rafters of the abandoned warehouse.

You are most likely to hear the word pigeons in everyday urban environments. If you are walking through a city square like St. Mark's in Venice or Times Square in New York, you will hear tourists and locals alike commenting on the birds. In these settings, the word is often used in the context of feeding or avoiding them. For instance, a parent might tell a child, 'Don't chase the pigeons!' or a tour guide might point out how the 'pigeons have damaged the marble statues over the centuries.' It is a staple word in the vocabulary of city life, often associated with the mundane reality of metropolitan living.

Urban Conversations: Commonly heard in parks, train stations, and public squares. 'Watch out for the pigeons' is a frequent warning near outdoor cafes.

'Look at all those pigeons!' the tourist exclaimed, pointing at the roof of the museum.

In the world of sports and hobbies, 'pigeons' is a central term in pigeon racing and fancy pigeon breeding. Enthusiasts, often called 'pigeon fanciers,' use the word with great respect and technical precision. You might hear them discuss 'racing pigeons' or 'homing pigeons' in documentaries or specialized news segments. They talk about the birds' pedigree, their flight times, and their training regimens. In this subculture, pigeons are not seen as pests but as elite athletes. Hearing the word in this context usually involves a lot of technical jargon about 'lofts' (where they live) and 'rings' (the identification tags on their legs).

Historical Documentaries: Often mentioned in history programs about World War I and II, focusing on the 'Pigeon Service' and the Dickin Medal for animal bravery.

The documentary explained how pigeons were used to carry secret messages when radio contact failed.

Furthermore, the word appears in literature and film to evoke a sense of place or mood. In gritty urban dramas, the presence of pigeons can symbolize the crowded, neglected parts of a city. In animated films, pigeons are often portrayed as comical characters (like the 'Goodfeathers' in Animaniacs). You will also encounter the word in news reports concerning public health or urban planning, where 'pigeon control' measures are discussed. Whether it's a scientific discussion about 'pigeon intelligence'—which is surprisingly high—or a casual remark about birds in the park, the word is deeply embedded in the English-speaking world's daily discourse.

The news report discussed the new spikes installed on buildings to prevent pigeons from nesting.

Scientific Research: Pigeons are frequently used in psychological experiments regarding operant conditioning and visual recognition.

Researchers found that pigeons can distinguish between different styles of painting, such as Picasso and Monet.

The park ranger asked us not to feed the pigeons because it disrupts their natural diet.

One of the most frequent mistakes learners make with the word pigeons is its spelling. It is very common to see it misspelled as 'pidgeons' with a 'd.' While the 'dg' sound is present in the pronunciation, the 'd' is not part of the standard English spelling. Another common error involves the distinction between 'pigeons' and 'doves.' While they are from the same family, in common usage, 'doves' usually refers to the smaller, white, or more delicate species, while 'pigeons' refers to the larger, grey, urban birds. Using 'dove' to describe a common city pigeon might sound overly poetic or simply incorrect depending on the context.

Spelling Error: Incorrect: 'pidgeon'. Correct: 'pigeon'. The plural is 'pigeons'.

He wrote a letter about the pigeons in the park, but he accidentally added a 'd' to the word.

Grammatically, learners sometimes struggle with the pluralization of collective nouns associated with pigeons. For example, saying 'a flocks of pigeons' is incorrect; it should be 'a flock of pigeons' (singular flock) or 'flocks of pigeons' (multiple groups). Additionally, because 'pigeons' is a count noun, it must be used with 'many' or 'fewer' rather than 'much' or 'less.' Saying 'there is too much pigeons' is a common mistake; the correct form is 'there are too many pigeons.' This error often stems from treating 'pigeons' as a mass noun similar to 'wildlife' or 'poultry,' but it must be treated as a collection of individual units.

Pronunciation Pitfall: The 'g' in pigeons is soft, sounding like a 'j' (/ˈpɪdʒənz/). Some learners mistakenly use a hard 'g' like in 'pig'.

There are fewer pigeons in the square today because of the cold weather.

Confusion also arises with the word 'pigeon' versus 'pidgin.' While they sound identical (homophones), 'pidgin' refers to a simplified language that develops between two or more groups that do not have a language in common. Using 'pigeon' when you mean 'pidgin English' is a significant error in written English. Finally, in the context of idioms, learners sometimes mix up 'pigeon' with other birds. For example, 'a stool pigeon' is an informer, but some might mistakenly say 'a stool bird' or 'a stool dove.' Accuracy in these fixed expressions is key to sounding natural and avoiding confusion.

The detective used a stool pigeon to get information about the gang's hideout.

Homophone Alert: Pigeon (bird) vs. Pidgin (language). They sound the same but have completely different meanings and spellings.

He is studying pidgin languages, not the behavior of pigeons.

The pigeons were roosting on the balcony, making a terrible mess.

When looking for alternatives to the word pigeons, the most immediate synonym is 'doves.' As mentioned previously, the distinction is largely cultural and linguistic rather than biological. In poetic or peaceful contexts, 'doves' is almost always preferred. For example, 'The release of white doves' sounds much more ceremonial than 'the release of white pigeons.' Another term is 'rock doves,' which is the more formal, ornithological name for the common feral pigeon. Using 'rock doves' signals a more scientific or serious tone, often used in nature documentaries or biology textbooks.

Pigeons vs. Doves: Pigeons: Often larger, grey/blue, urban. Doves: Often smaller, white/tan, symbolic of peace.

While they are technically the same family, people treat doves with more reverence than pigeons.

In specific contexts, you might use the word 'squabs.' This term refers specifically to young pigeons that have not yet flown, particularly when they are being discussed as a food source in culinary settings. If you are reading a high-end restaurant menu, you might see 'roasted squab' rather than 'pigeon.' Another related term is 'homers,' which is shorthand used by pigeon racers to refer to their homing pigeons. This is very informal and specific to that community. For a more general, collective term, you could use 'birds' or 'avian species,' though these are much less specific and lack the descriptive power of 'pigeons.'

Technical Alternatives: Columbidae (Family name), Rock Dove (Scientific name for common pigeon), Feral birds (General term for wild urban birds).

The ornithologist referred to the pigeons as 'rock doves' throughout her lecture.

When discussing pigeons as a nuisance, people often use pejorative terms like 'flying rats' or 'pests.' While these are not synonyms in a biological sense, they are frequently used as functional alternatives in casual conversation to express a negative opinion. Conversely, in the context of historical communication, 'messengers' or 'couriers' might be used to describe their role. Understanding these alternatives allows you to tailor your language to your audience, whether you are writing a scientific report, a restaurant review, or a casual complaint about the birds on your balcony.

Some city dwellers call pigeons 'flying rats,' but others find them quite charming.

Register Comparison: Formal: Rock Doves. Neutral: Pigeons. Informal/Negative: Flying rats. Culinary: Squab.

The pigeons in the park are much bolder than the ones in the forest.

The pigeons took flight simultaneously, creating a loud clapping sound with their wings.

چقدر رسمی است؟

نکته جالب

The distinction between 'pigeon' and 'dove' is purely linguistic; in many languages, like French ('pigeon') or Spanish ('paloma'), there is only one primary word for both. English adopted 'pigeon' from French and kept 'dove' from its Germanic roots.

راهنمای تلفظ

UK /ˈpɪdʒ.ənz/

US /ˈpɪdʒ.ənz/

The stress is on the first syllable: PI-geons.

هم‌قافیه با

Religions Regions Legions Midgens Widgeons Smidgens Allegiance (partial) Precisions (partial)

خطاهای رایج

Pronouncing the 'g' as a hard 'g' (like in 'pig').
Over-pronouncing the 'o' in the second syllable.
Adding a 'd' sound before the 'g' (though the sound is 'j', the spelling doesn't have a 'd').
Confusing the pronunciation with 'pidgin'.
Making the final 's' sound like an 's' instead of a 'z'.

سطح دشواری

خواندن 2/5

The word is very common and easy to recognize in most texts.

نوشتن 3/5

Spelling (pigeon vs pidgeon) can be tricky for some learners.

صحبت کردن 2/5

Pronunciation is straightforward once the soft 'g' is mastered.

گوش دادن 2/5

Easily identifiable in speech, though can be confused with 'pidgin'.

بعداً چه یاد بگیریم؟

پیش‌نیازها

Bird Fly City Grey Park

بعداً یاد بگیرید

Flock Feathers Nesting Urban Wildlife

پیشرفته

Ornithology Synanthropic Navigational Iridescent Columbidae

گرامر لازم

Plural Noun Agreement

The pigeons *are* (not is) flying.

Collective Nouns with 'of'

A flock of pigeons *is* (the subject is 'flock') landing.

Count vs. Non-count

There are *many* pigeons (not much).

Possessive Plural

The pigeons' feathers (apostrophe after the 's').

Zero Article for Generalization

Pigeons live in cities (general statement).

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The pigeons are in the park.

Les pigeons sont dans le parc.

Plural noun 'pigeons' with the verb 'are'.

I see three pigeons.

Je vois trois pigeons.

Using a number with the plural noun.

Pigeons like bread.

Les pigeons aiment le pain.

General statement using plural noun without an article.

The pigeons fly away.

Les pigeons s'envolent.

Present simple tense for a general action.

Look at the grey pigeons.

Regarde les pigeons gris.

Adjective 'grey' before the noun.

Pigeons make a coo sound.

Les pigeons font un bruit de roucoulement.

Noun acting as the subject.

The pigeons are on the roof.

Les pigeons sont sur le toit.

Prepositional phrase 'on the roof'.

Do you like pigeons?

Aimes-tu les pigeons ?

Question form with 'do'.

There are many pigeons in the city square.

Il y a beaucoup de pigeons sur la place de la ville.

Using 'there are many' for count nouns.

He is feeding the pigeons some seeds.

Il donne des graines aux pigeons.

Present continuous tense 'is feeding'.

Pigeons can find their way home easily.

Les pigeons peuvent facilement retrouver leur chemin.

Modal verb 'can' for ability.

The pigeons live on the old buildings.

Les pigeons vivent sur les vieux bâtiments.

Present simple for a permanent state.

A flock of pigeons flew over the trees.

Un vol de pigeons a volé au-dessus des arbres.

Collective noun 'flock of pigeons'.

I heard the pigeons cooing this morning.

J'ai entendu les pigeons roucouler ce matin.

Verb of perception 'heard' followed by object and participle.

Pigeons are very common in London.

Les pigeons sont très communs à Londres.

Adjective 'common' describing the noun.

The pigeons scattered when the dog barked.

Les pigeons se sont dispersés quand le chien a aboyé.

Past simple tense 'scattered'.

Historically, pigeons were used as reliable messengers during wars.

Historiquement, les pigeons étaient utilisés comme messagers fiables pendant les guerres.

Passive voice 'were used'.

Some people consider pigeons to be a nuisance in urban areas.

Certaines personnes considèrent les pigeons comme une nuisance dans les zones urbaines.

Infinitive phrase 'to be a nuisance'.

The pigeons bob their heads while walking to improve their depth perception.

Les pigeons hochent la tête en marchant pour améliorer leur perception de la profondeur.

Conjunction 'while' with a participle.

Pigeon racing is a hobby that requires a lot of dedication.

La colombophilie est un passe-temps qui demande beaucoup de dévouement.

Compound noun 'pigeon racing'.

We watched the pigeons roosting on the cathedral ledges.

Nous avons regardé les pigeons se percher sur les corniches de la cathédrale.

Participle 'roosting' describing the pigeons.

Feral pigeons are descendants of domestic birds that escaped.

Les pigeons bisets sont les descendants d'oiseaux domestiques qui se sont échappés.

Relative clause 'that escaped'.

The iridescent feathers on the pigeons' necks glowed in the sun.

Les plumes iridescentes sur le cou des pigeons brillaient au soleil.

Possessive plural 'pigeons''.

Scientists have discovered that pigeons can recognize human faces.

Les scientifiques ont découvert que les pigeons peuvent reconnaître les visages humains.

Present perfect 'have discovered'.

The rapid increase in the population of pigeons has led to stricter city regulations.

L'augmentation rapide de la population de pigeons a conduit à des réglementations municipales plus strictes.

Noun phrase as the subject of the sentence.

Pigeons are often stigmatized as 'flying rats' due to their presence in dirty environments.

Les pigeons sont souvent stigmatisés comme des 'rats volants' en raison de leur présence dans des environnements sales.

Passive voice with 'stigmatized as'.

The homing instinct of pigeons is one of nature's most remarkable navigational feats.

L'instinct de retour des pigeons est l'un des exploits de navigation les plus remarquables de la nature.

Superlative 'most remarkable'.

Many buildings use anti-roosting spikes to deter pigeons from nesting on windowsills.

De nombreux bâtiments utilisent des pics anti-perchoirs pour empêcher les pigeons de nicher sur les rebords de fenêtres.

Infinitive of purpose 'to deter'.

In some cultures, pigeons are raised specifically for their meat, known as squab.

Dans certaines cultures, les pigeons sont élevés spécifiquement pour leur viande, appelée pigeonneau.

Appositive 'known as squab'.

The pigeons' ability to categorize images suggests a high level of cognitive function.

La capacité des pigeons à catégoriser les images suggère un niveau élevé de fonction cognitive.

Possessive plural 'pigeons''.

Despite their reputation, pigeons play a role in the urban ecosystem by consuming waste.

Malgré leur réputation, les pigeons jouent un rôle dans l'écosystème urbain en consommant des déchets.

Preposition 'despite' followed by a noun phrase.

The city council debated whether to cull the local pigeons to protect the monuments.

Le conseil municipal a débattu de l'opportunité d'abattre les pigeons locaux pour protéger les monuments.

Noun clause 'whether to cull...'.

The sheer ubiquity of pigeons in metropolitan centers makes them an ideal subject for urban ecological studies.

L'omniprésence même des pigeons dans les centres métropolitains en fait un sujet idéal pour les études écologiques urbaines.

Abstract noun 'ubiquity' as the subject.

Pigeons have been marginalized in modern society, yet they were once revered as sacred symbols.

Les pigeons ont été marginalisés dans la société moderne, pourtant ils étaient autrefois vénérés comme des symboles sacrés.

Contrastive conjunction 'yet'.

The complex social hierarchies within flocks of pigeons are often overlooked by casual observers.

Les hiérarchies sociales complexes au sein des troupes de pigeons sont souvent négligées par les observateurs occasionnels.

Passive voice 'are often overlooked'.

The physiological adaptations of pigeons allow them to thrive in environments that would be hostile to other birds.

Les adaptations physiologiques des pigeons leur permettent de prospérer dans des environnements qui seraient hostiles à d'autres oiseaux.

Relative clause 'that would be hostile...'.

Linguistic distinctions between pigeons and doves are often arbitrary and vary across different cultures.

Les distinctions linguistiques entre les pigeons et les colombes sont souvent arbitraires et varient selon les cultures.

Coordinated adjectives 'arbitrary and vary'.

The pigeon's navigation system is a sophisticated amalgam of magnetic, olfactory, and visual cues.

Le système de navigation du pigeon est un amalgame sophistiqué de repères magnétiques, olfactifs et visuels.

Noun 'amalgam' followed by 'of'.

By setting the cat among the pigeons, the whistleblower forced the company to address the scandal.

En jetant un pavé dans la mare, le lanceur d'alerte a forcé l'entreprise à s'attaquer au scandale.

Idiomatic usage of 'cat among the pigeons'.

The historical reliance on pigeons for clandestine communication underscores their strategic importance in pre-digital warfare.

La dépendance historique aux pigeons pour la communication clandestine souligne leur importance stratégique dans la guerre pré-numérique.

Gerund phrase 'historical reliance on pigeons' as subject.

The synanthropic nature of pigeons has facilitated their global dispersal, paralleling the expansion of human civilization.

La nature synanthropique des pigeons a facilité leur dispersion mondiale, parallèlement à l'expansion de la civilisation humaine.

Present perfect 'has facilitated' with a participial phrase.

Ornithological discourse often grapples with the public's perception of pigeons as 'vermin' versus their biological complexity.

Le discours ornithologique est souvent aux prises avec la perception qu'a le public des pigeons comme de la 'vermine' par rapport à leur complexité biologique.

Noun 'perception' followed by 'of... as... versus...'.

The iridescent plumage of pigeons is a result of structural coloration rather than simple pigmentation.

Le plumage iridescent des pigeons est le résultat d'une coloration structurelle plutôt que d'une simple pigmentation.

Contrastive structure 'rather than'.

Pigeons exhibit a remarkable degree of behavioral plasticity, enabling them to exploit a myriad of urban niches.

Les pigeons font preuve d'un degré remarquable de plasticité comportementale, leur permettant d'exploiter une myriade de niches urbaines.

Participial phrase 'enabling them to exploit...'.

The cultural semiotics of pigeons fluctuate between the sacred and the profane across different historical epochs.

La sémiotique culturelle des pigeons fluctue entre le sacré et le profane à travers différentes époques historiques.

Verb 'fluctuate' with 'between... and...'.

Attempts to eradicate pigeons from urban centers have historically proved futile due to their high reproductive rates.

Les tentatives d'éradication des pigeons des centres urbains se sont historiquement révélées futiles en raison de leurs taux de reproduction élevés.

Adverb 'historically' modifying the verb 'proved'.

The pigeon's cognitive capacity for abstract conceptualization challenges traditional views on avian intelligence.

La capacité cognitive du pigeon pour la conceptualisation abstraite remet en question les visions traditionnelles sur l'intelligence aviaire.

Subject-verb agreement with 'capacity... challenges'.

The legacy of the 'pigeon fancier' is a testament to the enduring human fascination with avian genetics and performance.

L'héritage du 'colombophile' témoigne de la fascination humaine durable pour la génétique et la performance aviaires.

Metaphorical use of 'testament to'.

ترکیب‌های رایج

Flock of pigeons

Feral pigeons

Homing pigeons

Feed the pigeons

Pigeon racing

Pigeon droppings

Cooing pigeons

Carrier pigeons

Pigeon fancier

Wood pigeons

عبارات رایج

Don't feed the pigeons

— A common instruction or sign in public places to prevent bird overpopulation.

There's a 'Don't feed the pigeons' sign near the fountain.

Like a homing pigeon

— Describing someone who always returns to a specific place or home.

No matter where he travels, he always comes back like a homing pigeon.

Pigeon-toed

— Having the toes turned inward.

The little girl walked in a slightly pigeon-toed manner.

Pigeon-chested

— A physical condition where the chest bone sticks out.

The doctor noted that the boy was slightly pigeon-chested.

A clay pigeon

— A flying target used in shooting sports.

He spent the afternoon shooting at clay pigeons at the range.

Pigeon hole

— A small compartment for papers or mail.

Check your pigeon hole for any new messages from the office.

To pigeonhole someone

— To categorize someone in a rigid or narrow way.

Don't pigeonhole him as just a technician; he's a great artist too.

The pigeons have come home to roost

— The consequences of past actions are finally being felt.

After years of lying, the pigeons have finally come home to roost for the politician.

Stool pigeon

— A person who acts as an informer for the police.

The gang suspected there was a stool pigeon among them.

Set the cat among the pigeons

— To do something that causes a lot of excitement or trouble.

His controversial comments really set the cat among the pigeons.

اغلب اشتباه گرفته می‌شود با

pigeons vs Doves

Biologically the same, but 'doves' are usually smaller, white, and symbolic of peace.

pigeons vs Pidgin

A simplified language, sounds exactly like 'pigeon' but spelled differently.

pigeons vs Seagulls

Another common urban bird, but seagulls are larger, white/grey, and usually found near water.

اصطلاحات و عبارات

"Set the cat among the pigeons"

— To cause a disturbance or create a situation that makes people angry or worried.

Telling the staff about the layoffs set the cat among the pigeons.

Informal

"Stool pigeon"

— An informer or spy, especially one who works for the police.

The police used a stool pigeon to infiltrate the criminal organization.

Informal/Slang

"Pigeonhole (verb)"

— To unfairly decide that someone or something belongs to a particular group or type.

She felt pigeonholed by her early success in romantic comedies.

Neutral

"Clay pigeon"

— A target made of baked clay, used in skeet or trap shooting.

He's an expert at hitting clay pigeons.

Neutral

"Pigeon-toed"

— Having the feet turned inward toward each other.

The toddler was slightly pigeon-toed, but the doctor said she would grow out of it.

Neutral

"To pluck a pigeon"

— To swindle or cheat a gullible person (dated).

The con artist was looking for a wealthy pigeon to pluck.

Old-fashioned

"Pigeon English"

— Often a misspelling of 'Pidgin English,' referring to a simplified language.

They communicated in a form of pigeon English while trading.

Neutral (often misused)

"Like a homing pigeon"

— With an unerring ability to find one's way back to a starting point.

Even in the dark forest, he found the camp like a homing pigeon.

Neutral

"The pigeons come home to roost"

— Bad deeds or mistakes return to cause trouble for the person who did them.

His past financial crimes meant the pigeons were finally coming home to roost.

Neutral

"Pigeon-hearted"

— Timid or cowardly (rare).

The pigeon-hearted soldier hid during the battle.

Literary

به‌راحتی اشتباه گرفته می‌شود

pigeons vs Pidgin

Homophones (sound the same).

Pigeon is a bird; Pidgin is a simplified language used for communication between different language speakers.

They spoke a form of Pidgin English while watching the pigeons.

pigeons vs Dove

They belong to the same family.

In English, 'dove' usually refers to smaller, white species, while 'pigeon' refers to larger, grey ones.

The white dove looked very different from the grey pigeons.

pigeons vs Squab

It is a type of pigeon.

Squab is specifically a young pigeon, usually used in a culinary context.

The restaurant served squab, which is actually young pigeon.

pigeons vs Homer

It is a type of pigeon.

Homer is a specific term for a homing pigeon used in racing.

The pigeon fancier released his homers for the race.

pigeons vs Rock Dove

It is the same bird.

Rock Dove is the formal scientific name, while pigeon is the common name.

The scientist identified the bird as a Rock Dove, but the child called it a pigeon.

الگوهای جمله‌سازی

The [noun] is [preposition] the [noun].

The pigeon is on the grass.

There are many [noun] in the [place].

There are many pigeons in the park.

[Noun] are known for [gerund].

Pigeons are known for homing.

Despite [noun], [noun] [verb].

Despite their reputation, pigeons thrive in cities.

The [adjective] nature of [noun] [verb] [object].

The synanthropic nature of pigeons facilitates their dispersal.

[Noun] serve as a [noun] for [abstract noun].

Pigeons serve as a model for avian intelligence.

Mixed

A flock of [noun] [verb] [adverb].

A flock of pigeons flew overhead.

Mixed

To [verb] the [noun] among the [noun].

To set the cat among the pigeons.

خانواده کلمه

اسم‌ها

Pigeon

Pigeonry

Pigeonhole

Pigeon-fancier

فعل‌ها

Pigeonhole

صفت‌ها

Pigeon-toed

Pigeon-like

Pigeon-hearted

مرتبط

Dove

Columbid

Squab

Homer

Rock dove

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نحوه استفاده

frequency

Very high in urban and general contexts.

اشتباهات رایج

Pidgeon → Pigeon
Adding a 'd' is the most common spelling error. The word follows the French spelling 'pijon'.
Much pigeons → Many pigeons
Pigeons are countable, so you must use 'many' instead of 'much'.
The pigeon coo. → The pigeons coo. / The pigeon coos.
Ensure subject-verb agreement. Plural 'pigeons' takes 'coo'; singular 'pigeon' takes 'coos'.
Using 'dove' for every pigeon. → Using 'pigeon' for urban birds.
While biologically similar, calling a common grey city bird a 'dove' can be confusing or sound out of place.
Confusing 'pigeon' with 'pidgin'. → Pigeon (bird), Pidgin (language).
These are homophones. Use 'pigeon' for the animal and 'pidgin' for the linguistic term.

نکات

No 'D' in Pigeon

Always remember that 'pigeon' is spelled with a 'g' and no 'd'. A common mistake is writing 'pidgeon' because of the sound.

Use 'Flock'

When you see many pigeons together, use the word 'flock'. It's the most natural collective noun for birds.

Countable Noun

Pigeons are countable. Use 'many pigeons' or 'fewer pigeons', never 'much' or 'less'.

Urban Context

In a city, 'pigeon' is the standard word. Using 'dove' for a grey city bird might sound strange or overly poetic.

Soft 'G'

The 'g' in pigeons sounds like a 'j'. Think of the word 'judge' to help you get the sound right.

Cat and Pigeons

Use 'set the cat among the pigeons' when someone says something that causes a lot of trouble or worry.

Rock Dove

If you are writing a science paper, use 'rock dove' (Columba livia) for the common pigeon.

Squab on the Menu

If you see 'squab' on a menu, it means young pigeon. It's a useful word for foodies.

Carrier vs. Homing

While often used interchangeably, 'carrier' usually refers to the role (carrying messages), while 'homing' refers to the ability.

Descriptive Verbs

Instead of just saying 'pigeons were there', use 'pigeons were roosting' or 'pigeons were scavenging' for better writing.

حفظ کنید

روش یادسپاری

Think of a 'Pigeon' as a 'PIe-eating bird in a dunGEON'. They are plump like they ate too much pie and they like to live in dark, stone-like places like dungeons (or city buildings).

تداعی تصویری

Imagine a grey bird with a shiny green neck walking on a city sidewalk, bobbing its head like it's listening to music.

شبکه واژگان

Birds City Cooing Feathers Homing Messenger Park Wings

چالش

Try to write a paragraph describing a city scene using the word 'pigeons' and at least three collocations like 'flock of pigeons' or 'pigeon droppings'.

ریشه کلمه

The word 'pigeon' comes from the Old French word 'pijon', which meant 'young bird' or 'young dove'. This, in turn, derived from the Late Latin 'pīpiōnem', the accusative form of 'pīpiō', meaning a 'chirping bird'. The Latin root is onomatopoeic, mimicking the sound of a young bird chirping.

معنای اصلی: Originally, it specifically referred to a young bird, especially a young dove, before it became the general term for the entire species.

Indo-European -> Italic -> Latin -> Romance -> French -> English.

بافت فرهنگی

Be aware that while many people like pigeons, others consider them 'vermin' or 'pests,' so the word can carry negative connotations in urban planning or health contexts.

In the UK and US, pigeons are often associated with urban grit and the mundane reality of city life. They are frequently mentioned in literature about London or New York.

Cher Ami (WWI hero pigeon) The 'Goodfeathers' from Animaniacs Bert from Sesame Street and his love for pigeons

تمرین در زندگی واقعی

موقعیت‌های واقعی

In a city park

Feeding the pigeons
A flock of pigeons
Don't chase the pigeons
Scattered the pigeons

Historical discussion

Carrier pigeons
War pigeons
Delivering messages
Homing instinct

Urban management

Pigeon control
Anti-pigeon spikes
Pigeon droppings
Feral population

Sports and hobbies

Pigeon racing
Pigeon fancier
Racing loft
Fancy pigeons

Idiomatic usage

Pigeonholed
Stool pigeon
Cat among the pigeons
Pigeon-toed

شروع‌کننده‌های مکالمه

"Do you think pigeons are a nuisance in cities, or do they add character to the streets?"

"Have you ever seen a pigeon racing competition or a pigeon loft?"

"What do you call pigeons in your native language, and are there any special stories about them?"

"Why do you think pigeons are so successful at living in human environments?"

"Did you know that pigeons were used as heroes in World War I and II?"

موضوعات نگارش

Describe a time you watched pigeons in a park. What were they doing, and how did people react to them?

If you were a carrier pigeon in the past, what kind of important message would you want to deliver?

Write about the pros and cons of having a large population of pigeons in a modern city.

Reflect on the idiom 'to pigeonhole someone.' Have you ever felt pigeonholed by others?

Imagine a world where pigeons could talk. What would they say about the humans they watch every day?

سوالات متداول

10 سوال

Biologically, there is no consistent difference between pigeons and doves. Both belong to the family Columbidae. In general English usage, 'dove' usually refers to smaller, white, or more delicate species, while 'pigeon' refers to larger, stouter, and often grey birds found in cities.

This is a pejorative term used by people who consider pigeons to be pests. It refers to their large numbers in cities, their tendency to scavenge for food in trash, and the belief that they carry diseases, much like rats do.

Homing pigeons use a combination of methods, including sensing the Earth's magnetic field (magnetoreception), using the sun as a compass, and recognizing visual landmarks. Some research also suggests they use their sense of smell to create an 'olfactory map' of their environment.

This depends on local laws. Many cities have banned feeding pigeons because it leads to overpopulation, which can cause health issues and damage to buildings. It's always best to check for signs or local regulations before feeding them.

Yes, scientific studies have shown that pigeons are remarkably good at recognizing individual human faces. They can even remember which people have been kind to them and which ones have chased them away.

In the wild, pigeons primarily eat seeds, grains, and fruits. In urban environments, they are opportunistic scavengers and will eat almost anything humans leave behind, including bread, fast food scraps, and spilled grain.

Feral pigeons in cities typically live for 3 to 5 years due to predators, disease, and harsh conditions. However, pigeons kept as pets or for racing can live much longer, sometimes up to 15 or even 20 years.

Pigeons bob their heads to stabilize their vision. By moving their head forward and then holding it still while their body catches up, they get a clear, unblurred view of their surroundings, which helps them detect movement and judge depth.

Pigeon racing is a sport where specially trained homing pigeons are released from a specific location and timed to see how long it takes them to return to their home loft. The bird with the highest average speed wins.

Yes, pigeons are considered very intelligent for birds. They have passed the 'mirror test' (recognizing themselves), can solve basic math problems, and can be trained to perform complex tasks in laboratory settings.

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