Cette page dans ta langue

English

فارسی

العربية

Deutsch

Español

日本語

한국어

Português

中文

हिन्दी

A2 noun #43 le plus courant 13 min de lecture

robin

Top 43

Entraîne-toi Exemples Notes et astuces robin en 30 secondes

Explication robin in your Level:

A robin is a bird. It is small. It has a red or orange chest. You can see robins in gardens. They like to eat worms. Many people like robins because they are pretty. In some countries, robins come in the spring. In other countries, they stay all winter. You can say, 'I see a robin.' or 'The robin is singing.' It is a very common bird. It is easy to find in books and pictures. Children often learn about robins at school. The robin is a friendly bird.

Inscris-toi gratuitement pour lire l'explication complète

A robin is a small to medium-sized bird. It is famous for its reddish-orange breast. You will often see robins in gardens, parks, and woods. They are known for their beautiful singing, especially in the morning. In North America, robins are a sign that spring is coming. In the UK, they are often seen on Christmas cards. Robins are quite brave and sometimes come close to people. They build nests in trees or bushes and lay blue eggs. It is a very popular bird for people who like nature.

The robin is a well-known songbird characterized by its distinctive orange-red breast and cheerful song. There are different types of robins in different parts of the world, such as the European robin and the American robin. They are often associated with specific seasons; for example, the American robin is considered a herald of spring, while the European robin is a symbol of winter and Christmas. Robins are territorial birds, meaning they protect the area where they live. They are also known for being 'the gardener's friend' because they often follow people who are digging in the garden to find insects.

Inscris-toi gratuitement pour lire l'explication complète

The term 'robin' refers to several species of passerine birds, most notably the European Robin (Erithacus rubecula) and the American Robin (Turdus migratorius). While they share a common name and a red-colored breast, they belong to different avian families. The robin has a significant place in folklore and literature, often representing hope, renewal, and the transition of seasons. In terms of behavior, robins are highly territorial and possess a complex song used for communication and defending their space. The word also appears in idiomatic English, such as 'round robin,' which refers to a specific type of tournament or a circular letter sent among a group.

Inscris-toi gratuitement pour lire l'explication complète

In ornithological and cultural contexts, the 'robin' serves as a primary example of how common names can span across different biological families. The European Robin, a member of the Old World flycatcher family, contrasts with the American Robin, which is a larger thrush. Beyond biology, the robin is deeply embedded in the Western cultural consciousness. It features prominently in Victorian iconography and Romantic poetry, often serving as a metaphor for the enduring spirit of nature. The linguistic use of 'robin' extends into various specialized fields, including sports and administration through the 'round robin' system, illustrating the word's versatility and its evolution from a simple avian label to a broader conceptual tool.

Inscris-toi gratuitement pour lire l'explication complète

The 'robin' represents a fascinating case study in both avian taxonomy and cultural semiotics. Whether discussing the Erithacus rubecula or the Turdus migratorius, the robin is frequently utilized as a bio-indicator of seasonal shifts and ecosystem health. In literature, the robin's presence often signals a shift in narrative tone, moving from the bleakness of winter to the vitality of spring, or acting as a domestic guardian in pastoral settings. The etymological journey of the word—from a diminutive of 'Robert' to a standard name for diverse species—reflects the human tendency to anthropomorphize and localize the natural world. Mastery of the term involves navigating these deep cultural associations while maintaining scientific precision regarding the specific species being discussed.

Inscris-toi gratuitement pour lire l'explication complète

Entraîne-toi Exemples Notes et astuces

robin en 30 secondes

A robin is a common songbird easily identified by its bright reddish-orange breast and cheerful, melodic song.
In the UK, it is a year-round garden resident and a major symbol of Christmas and winter festivities.
In North America, the robin is a larger bird and its appearance is widely celebrated as the first sign of spring.
The word is also used in 'round robin' to describe a tournament format where every participant plays every other.

The word robin refers to a specific type of passerine bird known for its distinctive appearance and melodic song. In the linguistic landscape, 'robin' is more than just a biological label; it is a symbol of seasonal change, hope, and domesticity. When people use this word, they are often referring to one of two primary species depending on their geographic location: the European Robin (Erithacus rubecula) or the American Robin (Turdus migratorius). Despite being different species, both share the iconic orange-red breast that defines the name in the popular imagination.

Biological Classification: The European robin is a small insectivorous bird, while the American robin is a larger thrush. Both are categorized under the order Passeriformes, which includes more than half of all bird species, characterized by their perching habits.

The robin perched on the garden fence, its red breast glowing in the morning light.

In everyday conversation, 'robin' is used frequently during the spring and winter. In North America, the arrival of the robin is widely considered the first true sign of spring, as they are often seen pulling worms from the thawing ground. In the United Kingdom and Europe, the robin is a year-round resident but is most famously associated with Christmas and winter scenes. This cultural divergence means that a speaker in London might associate a robin with snow and holly, while a speaker in New York associates it with the first green buds of April.

Symbolic Usage: Robins are often used in literature and poetry to represent rebirth, new beginnings, and the persistence of life through harsh conditions. Their cheerful song is frequently cited as a source of comfort.

Every winter, the robin returns to our birdfeeder, a small spark of color against the white snow.

The word is also utilized in various compound forms and names. 'Robin Hood' is perhaps the most famous legendary figure associated with the name, though the etymology there relates to the name 'Robert'. In modern tech and finance, 'Robinhood' is a well-known trading platform, which uses the bird's friendly and 'everyman' image to market its services. Understanding the context of the word requires an awareness of whether the speaker is discussing nature, folklore, or even modern branding.

I heard a robin singing at dawn, signaling the end of the long frost.

Visual Identification: Look for the 'red breast' which is actually more of an orange-red. In juveniles, this red patch is absent, and they are speckled brown to provide camouflage from predators.

The children were delighted to see a robin building a nest in the old watering can.

Furthermore, the term 'robin' is often used in the context of 'round robin' tournaments or scheduling. This usage, while sharing the name, has a different origin (the French 'ruban' or ribbon), but it is a common way students and professionals will encounter the word in non-biological contexts. Whether you are a gardener, a sports enthusiast, or a literature student, the robin appears as a multifaceted term that bridges the gap between the natural world and human social structures.

The robin is often called 'the gardener's friend' because it eats pests like beetles and caterpillars.

Using the word robin correctly involves understanding its role as a countable noun. It typically follows standard English grammar rules for animals. You can use it in the singular form with an article ('a robin', 'the robin') or in the plural ('robins'). Because it is a specific noun, it is often paired with verbs related to movement, sound, and behavior typical of birds, such as 'perch', 'hop', 'sing', 'nest', and 'migrate'.

Descriptive Adjectives: Common adjectives used with robin include 'cheerful', 'plump', 'red-breasted', 'territorial', and 'migratory'. These help specify the bird's appearance or nature.

A robin hopped across the lawn in search of worms after the rain shower.

When discussing the robin's song, you might use verbs like 'trill', 'warble', or 'whistle'. The robin's song is distinctive and often described as liquid or flute-like. In a sentence, you might say, 'The robin's song filled the quiet garden.' This adds a sensory layer to your writing or speech. In more technical or academic contexts, you might refer to the robin's 'plumage' or 'habitat', moving away from simple descriptions to more precise terminology.

Prepositional Phrases: Robins are often 'in the tree', 'on the ground', 'near the nest', or 'at the feeder'. Using these prepositions correctly helps place the robin in a scene.

We watched the robins as they diligently gathered twigs to build their nest under the eaves.

In metaphorical or idiomatic usage, 'robin' appears in phrases like 'round robin'. For example, 'The tournament followed a round robin format, ensuring every team played against every other team.' Here, the word loses its avian meaning entirely and refers to a specific structure of competition. It is vital for learners to distinguish between the bird and these idiomatic expressions to avoid confusion in professional or social settings.

The appearance of the first robin of the year is always a moment of joy for our family.

Verb Collocations: Common verbs that robins 'do' include: migrate, forage, defend (territory), hatch, and fledgling. These are useful for describing the life cycle of the bird.

The robin is famously territorial and will drive away other birds from its feeding area.

Finally, when writing about robins, consider the level of formality. In a casual email, 'I saw a cute robin' is perfect. In a scientific report, 'The Erithacus rubecula exhibited typical foraging behavior' would be more appropriate. By mastering these variations, you can use the word 'robin' effectively across all types of communication, from creative writing to scientific observation.

A flash of orange revealed the robin hiding among the thick ivy leaves.

The word robin is ubiquitous in English-speaking cultures, appearing in a wide variety of contexts ranging from nature documentaries to holiday celebrations. If you are in a park or a garden in the UK or North America, you will likely hear people pointing them out. Parents often teach their children the name of the robin as one of their first birds, making it a staple of early childhood vocabulary. You'll hear it in phrases like 'Look, there's a robin!' or 'The robins are back!'

In Media and Literature: Robins appear in classic literature like 'The Secret Garden' by Frances Hodgson Burnett, where a robin plays a crucial role in leading the protagonist to the hidden key. You will also hear the word in nursery rhymes like 'North Wind Doth Blow'.

The documentary narrator explained how the robin uses magnetic fields to navigate during migration.

During the winter months, especially in the UK, the word 'robin' is heard constantly in the context of Christmas. It appears on greeting cards, in festive songs, and as decorations on trees. This is due to a Victorian tradition where postmen, who wore red coats, were nicknamed 'robins'. The bird then became associated with the delivery of Christmas mail. Consequently, you might hear someone say, 'The Christmas cards this year all have robins on them.'

In Music and Pop Culture: Songs like 'Rockin' Robin' by Bobby Day (and later Michael Jackson) have made the word a part of musical history. In comics, 'Robin' is the famous sidekick to Batman, representing a youthful and bright contrast to the Dark Knight.

The radio played 'Rockin' Robin', and everyone started tapping their feet to the beat.

In gardening circles, the word is spoken with affection. Gardeners often talk about 'their' robin, as the birds frequently become quite bold and follow people around as they work the soil. You might hear a neighbor say, 'My robin was very busy in the vegetable patch today.' This highlights the bird's status as a companionable creature in human-managed landscapes. Additionally, in weather forecasts, meteorologists might mention the 'arrival of the robins' as a colloquial way to discuss the onset of spring weather.

In the comic book, Robin used his agility to outmaneuver the villains in Gotham City.

In Scientific Discourse: Ornithologists and birdwatchers use the word when discussing avian behavior, migration patterns, and the impact of climate change on bird populations.

The researcher noted that the robin population had increased due to the milder winter temperatures.

Lastly, you will encounter 'robin' in the names of various plants and other animals that share its coloration, such as the 'Ragged Robin' (a wildflower) or the 'Robin Moth'. This shows how the bird's name has become a shorthand for a specific aesthetic—bright, cheerful, and reddish-orange. Whether in a scientific journal or a casual chat over a garden fence, the word 'robin' is a versatile and frequently used part of the English lexicon.

The 'Round Robin' email was sent to everyone in the office to collect their lunch orders.

One of the most common mistakes learners make with the word robin is assuming it refers to the same bird globally. As mentioned, the European Robin and the American Robin are very different birds. The European version is small and round, while the American version is much larger and more closely related to thrushes. Using the word without considering the geographic context can lead to confusion, especially in descriptive writing or scientific discussions.

Confusing with Other Birds: Many people mistake any bird with a red chest for a robin. For instance, the Northern Cardinal or the Painted Bunting also have red markings but are not robins. Accuracy in identification is key.

Incorrect: I saw a robin with a big red crest. (Robins do not have crests; this was likely a Cardinal).

Another mistake involves the pluralization and collective nouns. While 'robins' is the standard plural, some people try to use more complex collective nouns that aren't commonly used. While a 'round' or a 'carol' of robins are poetic terms, in everyday English, 'a group of robins' or just 'robins' is much more natural. Over-complicating the language can make a learner sound unnatural. Additionally, confusing 'robin' (the bird) with 'robbing' (the act of stealing) is a common phonological error for non-native speakers, as the short 'o' sound can be tricky.

Idiomatic Misuse: Using 'round robin' to mean a 'circular letter' is correct, but using it to mean 'a bird flying in circles' is a literalist mistake. Idioms must be used in their established figurative senses.

Incorrect: We are playing a robin game. Correct: We are playing a round-robin tournament.

Grammatically, some learners forget that 'robin' is a countable noun. You cannot say 'I saw much robin in the park.' Instead, you must say 'I saw many robins' or 'I saw a lot of robins.' This is a basic error but one that frequently occurs when learners are focusing on the vocabulary rather than the syntax. Also, be careful with the possessive form: 'the robin's nest' (one bird) versus 'the robins' nest' (if multiple birds are involved, though robins are usually solitary nesters).

Incorrect: The robin migration are starting. Correct: The robin migration is starting.

Pronunciation Pitfalls: The 'r' should be soft, and the 'o' is a short vowel sound /ɒ/ in British English or /ɑː/ in American English. Avoid making the 'o' sound like the 'o' in 'rope'.

Incorrect: The robin is a type of eagle. (This is a factual error; robins are small songbirds, not birds of prey).

Finally, avoid using 'robin' as a verb. While many animal names can be turned into verbs (like 'to parrot' or 'to ape'), 'to robin' is not a standard English verb. If you want to describe someone acting like a robin, you would need to use a simile, such as 'he hopped around like a robin.' Keeping these distinctions in mind will help you use the word accurately and naturally in any conversation or piece of writing.

The robin laid four beautiful light-blue eggs in its nest.

When discussing the robin, it is helpful to know other words that fall into the same category or share similar characteristics. Depending on the context—whether you are talking about birds in general, the color red, or symbols of spring—different alternatives might be more precise. Understanding these synonyms and related terms will enrich your vocabulary and allow for more nuanced expression.

Songbird: This is a broader category that includes robins. Use 'songbird' when you want to emphasize the bird's musical ability rather than its specific species. Example: 'The garden was alive with the sound of various songbirds.'

The robin is one of the most beloved songbirds in the northern hemisphere.

In the UK, the robin is often affectionately called a 'redbreast'. This is an old-fashioned but still common alternative. In North America, if you are looking for a bird that occupies a similar cultural niche (a bright, common bird), you might mention the 'Bluebird' or the 'Cardinal'. While they are different species, they evoke similar feelings of joy and seasonal change. Comparing these birds can help clarify which one you are talking about.

Thrush: The American robin is technically a member of the thrush family (Turdidae). Other thrushes include the Bluebird and the Wood Thrush. This is a more technical classification.

While the European robin is a flycatcher, the American version is actually a large thrush.

For the word 'round robin', alternatives depend on the context. In sports, you might use 'all-play-all tournament'. In communication, you might use 'circular letter' or 'group email'. These alternatives are more descriptive and can be clearer for people who are not familiar with the idiom. In the context of the name 'Robin', alternatives like 'Robert', 'Robbie', or 'Rob' are common diminutives or related names.

The robin's bright chest makes it easy to spot even in the dense shrubbery.

Avian: This is an adjective meaning 'relating to birds'. You might talk about 'robin's avian characteristics' in a formal or scientific essay.

The robin is often the first bird to start the dawn chorus.

In summary, while 'robin' is a very specific word, knowing its broader categories (songbird, thrush, avian) and its cultural equivalents (bluebird, cardinal) allows you to describe the natural world with greater precision. Whether you are aiming for poetic flair with 'redbreast' or scientific accuracy with Latin terms, choosing the right word for the right audience is a hallmark of advanced language proficiency.

A robin's egg is famous for its unique shade of light, bright blue.

How Formal Is It?

Le savais-tu ?

The association of robins with Christmas began in the 19th century because British postmen wore red coats and were nicknamed 'robins'.

Guide de prononciation

UK /ˈrɒb.ɪn/

US /ˈrɑː.bɪn/

The stress is on the first syllable: ROB-in.

Rime avec

bobbin dobbin gobbin hobbin loggin noggin sobbin throbbin

Erreurs fréquentes

Pronouncing the 'o' like 'rope' (long O).
Pronouncing the 'i' like 'machine' (long E).
Putting the stress on the second syllable.
Confusing the sound with 'robbing'.
Making the 'r' too hard or trilled.

Niveau de difficulté

Lecture 2/5

Very easy to recognize in text.

Écriture 2/5

Simple spelling, but don't add an extra 'b'.

Expression orale 3/5

The 'r' and 'o' sounds vary between dialects.

Écoute 2/5

Clear and distinct word in most conversations.

Quoi apprendre ensuite

Prérequis

bird red garden tree sing

Apprends ensuite

sparrow migration territorial plumage habitat

Avancé

ornithology passerine insectivorous iconography

Grammaire à connaître

Countable Nouns

One robin, two robins.

Possessive S

The robin's breast is red.

Articles with Animals

A robin (general), The robin (specific).

Present Simple for Habits

Robins eat worms.

Adjective Placement

The small, red-breasted robin.

Inscris-toi gratuitement pour lire l'explication complète

Exemples par niveau

The robin is a small bird.

Le rouge-gorge est un petit oiseau.

Subject + Verb + Noun

I see a robin in the garden.

Je vois un rouge-gorge dans le jardin.

Present Simple tense

The robin has a red chest.

Le rouge-gorge a une poitrine rouge.

Possessive 'has'

Robins like to eat worms.

Les rouge-gorges aiment manger des vers.

Plural noun + plural verb

A robin is singing today.

Un rouge-gorge chante aujourd'hui.

Present Continuous tense

The robin lives in a nest.

Le rouge-gorge vit dans un nid.

Preposition 'in'

Look at that pretty robin!

Regarde ce joli rouge-gorge !

Imperative mood

The robin is orange and brown.

Le rouge-gorge est orange et marron.

Adjectives for color

The robin built a nest in our porch.

Le rouge-gorge a construit un nid dans notre porche.

Past Simple of 'build'

Robins are often seen in the spring.

On voit souvent des rouge-gorges au printemps.

Passive voice 'are seen'

I heard a robin singing early this morning.

J'ai entendu un rouge-gorge chanter tôt ce matin.

Verb of perception + object + -ing

The robin is smaller than a crow.

Le rouge-gorge est plus petit qu'un corbeau.

Comparative adjective

Do robins migrate to warm places?

Est-ce que les rouge-gorges migrent vers des endroits chauds ?

Question form

The robin's eggs are a beautiful blue color.

Les œufs du rouge-gorge sont d'une belle couleur bleue.

Possessive 's

A robin followed me while I was gardening.

Un rouge-gorge m'a suivi pendant que je jardinais.

Past Continuous for background action

There are many robins in the park today.

Il y a beaucoup de rouge-gorges dans le parc aujourd'hui.

There are + many

The robin is considered a symbol of good luck in some cultures.

Le rouge-gorge est considéré comme un symbole de chance dans certaines cultures.

Passive construction 'is considered'

Because it is territorial, the robin will defend its garden.

Parce qu'il est territorial, le rouge-gorge défendra son jardin.

Conjunction 'because'

The American robin is actually a member of the thrush family.

Le merle d'Amérique est en fait un membre de la famille des grives.

Adverb 'actually'

We put out seeds to attract robins to our backyard.

Nous avons mis des graines pour attirer les rouge-gorges dans notre jardin.

Infinitive of purpose 'to attract'

The robin's song is one of the first sounds of the dawn chorus.

Le chant du rouge-gorge est l'un des premiers sons du chœur de l'aube.

Superlative 'one of the first'

If you see a robin, it might mean that winter is ending.

Si vous voyez un rouge-gorge, cela pourrait signifier que l'hiver se termine.

First conditional

The robin hopped onto the spade while the gardener was resting.

Le rouge-gorge a sauté sur la bêche pendant que le jardinier se reposait.

Preposition 'onto'

Robins are known for their ability to find worms underground.

Les rouge-gorges sont connus pour leur capacité à trouver des vers sous terre.

Adjective + preposition 'known for'

The European robin remains a popular figure on British Christmas cards.

Le rouge-gorge européen reste une figure populaire sur les cartes de Noël britanniques.

Linking verb 'remains'

Ornithologists have studied the migratory patterns of the American robin for decades.

Les ornithologues étudient les schémas migratoires du merle d'Amérique depuis des décennies.

Present Perfect 'have studied'

The robin's bright plumage serves as a warning to other males in the area.

Le plumage éclatant du rouge-gorge sert d'avertissement aux autres mâles de la zone.

Verb 'serves as'

Despite their small size, robins are remarkably brave when protecting their nests.

Malgré leur petite taille, les rouge-gorges sont remarquablement courageux lorsqu'ils protègent leurs nids.

Concession 'despite'

The term 'round robin' is used to describe a tournament where everyone competes.

Le terme 'round robin' est utilisé pour décrire un tournoi où tout le monde concourt.

Relative clause 'where...'

A robin's diet consists mainly of insects, fruits, and berries.

Le régime alimentaire d'un rouge-gorge se compose principalement d'insectes, de fruits et de baies.

Phrasal verb 'consists of'

The robin is often depicted in Victorian literature as a domestic guardian.

Le rouge-gorge est souvent représenté dans la littérature victorienne comme un gardien domestique.

Adverbial phrase 'often depicted'

Watching the robins return each year provides a sense of seasonal continuity.

Regarder les rouge-gorges revenir chaque année procure un sentiment de continuité saisonnière.

Gerund as subject 'Watching...'

The robin's adaptation to urban environments has allowed its population to thrive.

L'adaptation du rouge-gorge aux environnements urbains a permis à sa population de prospérer.

Complex noun phrase

The cultural significance of the robin varies significantly between Europe and North America.

La signification culturelle du rouge-gorge varie considérablement entre l'Europe et l'Amérique du Nord.

Subject-verb agreement with abstract noun

In many poems, the robin acts as a harbinger of spring, signaling the end of winter's dormancy.

Dans de nombreux poèmes, le rouge-gorge agit comme un signe avant-coureur du printemps, signalant la fin de la dormance hivernale.

Appositive phrase 'signaling...'

The robin's song is characterized by a series of liquid, flute-like notes.

Le chant du rouge-gorge se caractérise par une série de notes liquides, semblables à celles d'une flûte.

Passive voice with 'characterized by'

Environmental changes have impacted the traditional nesting sites of the local robin population.

Les changements environnementaux ont eu un impact sur les sites de nidification traditionnels de la population locale de rouge-gorges.

Perfect aspect for impact

The 'round robin' scheduling algorithm is frequently employed in operating systems for process management.

L'algorithme d'ordonnancement 'round robin' est fréquemment employé dans les systèmes d'exploitation pour la gestion des processus.

Technical jargon usage

Robins exhibit a high degree of site fidelity, often returning to the same garden year after year.

Les rouge-gorges font preuve d'un haut degré de fidélité au site, revenant souvent dans le même jardin année après année.

Scientific terminology 'site fidelity'

The intricate social hierarchy of robins is most evident during the competitive breeding season.

La hiérarchie sociale complexe des rouge-gorges est plus évidente pendant la saison de reproduction compétitive.

Superlative with 'most evident'

The robin's ubiquity in folklore underscores its role as a bridge between the wild and the domestic.

L'ubiquité du rouge-gorge dans le folklore souligne son rôle de pont entre le sauvage et le domestique.

Sophisticated vocabulary 'ubiquity', 'underscores'

Such is the robin's territorial nature that it will aggressively repel any perceived interloper.

Telle est la nature territoriale du rouge-gorge qu'il repoussera agressivement tout intrus perçu.

Inverted sentence structure for emphasis

The evolution of the robin's song serves as a fascinating subject for bioacoustic research.

L'évolution du chant du rouge-gorge constitue un sujet fascinant pour la recherche bioacoustique.

Compound noun 'bioacoustic research'

In the tapestry of British winter traditions, the robin is an indispensable thread.

Dans la tapisserie des traditions hivernales britanniques, le rouge-gorge est un fil indispensable.

Metaphorical language

The American robin's expansive range across the continent is a testament to its ecological versatility.

La vaste aire de répartition du merle d'Amérique sur le continent témoigne de sa polyvalence écologique.

Abstract noun 'testament'

One must distinguish between the Erithacus rubecula and the Turdus migratorius to avoid taxonomic inaccuracy.

Il faut distinguer l'Erithacus rubecula du Turdus migratorius pour éviter toute inexactitude taxonomique.

Formal 'One must...'

The robin's presence in the garden is often romanticized as a sign of spiritual visitation.

La présence du rouge-gorge dans le jardin est souvent romancée comme un signe de visite spirituelle.

Passive voice with 'romanticized'

Despite the harshness of the climate, the robin's resilience remains a point of wonder for many observers.

Malgré la rigueur du climat, la résilience du rouge-gorge reste un sujet d'émerveillement pour de nombreux observateurs.

Complex sentence with concession

Collocations courantes

robin's egg blue

first robin of spring

round robin

robin redbreast

territorial robin

nesting robin

cheerful robin

migratory robin

robin's song

garden robin

Phrases Courantes

as red as a robin's breast

— Extremely red in color.

His face turned as red as a robin's breast.

the robin's return

— The arrival of spring.

The robin's return is a welcome sight after winter.

round robin letter

— A letter sent to a group of people, each adding something.

We sent a round robin letter to all the family members.

cock robin

— A male robin, often used in nursery rhymes.

Who killed Cock Robin? I, said the sparrow.

robin's nest

— A place where a robin lives, or a cozy home.

The cottage was as cozy as a robin's nest.

winter robin

— A robin seen during the winter months.

The winter robin looked beautiful in the snow.

robin's call

— The specific sound a robin makes.

I recognize the robin's call anywhere.

early robin

— A robin that arrives very early in the season.

The early robin caught the first worm.

robin hood

— A legendary hero, or someone who helps the poor.

He thinks he's a modern-day Robin Hood.

baby robin

— A young robin bird.

The baby robin is waiting for its mother.

Souvent confondu avec

robin vs robbing

The act of stealing. Sounds similar but has a different vowel sound and meaning.

robin vs Robert

A common name from which 'robin' was derived, but used for people.

robin vs ribbon

A long strip of fabric. Related to the origin of 'round robin' but different meaning.

Expressions idiomatiques

"round robin"

— A tournament in which each contestant meets every other contestant in turn.

The chess club held a round robin to find the champion.

neutral

"robin's egg blue"

— A specific shade of light blue-green.

Her dress was a stunning robin's egg blue.

neutral

"cock robin"

— A reference to the nursery rhyme 'Who Killed Cock Robin?', often used to discuss blame.

The investigation was like a real-life 'Who Killed Cock Robin?'

literary

"to be a robin"

— In some contexts, to be a messenger of good news.

She was the robin of our group, always bringing joy.

informal

"robin's winter"

— A late cold snap in spring when robins have already arrived.

We had a robin's winter this year with snow in April.

regional

"round robin petition"

— A petition where signatures are written in a circle to hide who signed first.

The sailors signed a round robin petition to the captain.

historical

"rockin' robin"

— Refers to someone who is very active or lively, from the song.

He's a real rockin' robin on the dance floor.

slang

"robin's nest egg"

— A small amount of money saved for the future.

She kept a little robin's nest egg in her drawer.

informal

"to hop like a robin"

— To move quickly and lightly.

The child was hopping like a robin across the playground.

neutral

"robin's luck"

— A belief that seeing a robin brings good fortune.

I saw a robin today, so I hope for some robin's luck.

informal

Facile à confondre

robin vs Sparrow

Both are small, common brown birds.

Sparrows lack the red breast and have different beak shapes.

The sparrow is brown, but the robin has a red chest.

robin vs Cardinal

Both have red feathers.

Cardinals are much redder all over and have a crest on their head.

That bird is all red, so it's a cardinal, not a robin.

robin vs Bluebird

Both are symbols of spring and have similar shapes.

Bluebirds are primarily blue, while robins are brown and orange.

The bluebird is blue, but the robin is brown and red.

robin vs Thrush

The American robin is a type of thrush.

Thrush is a broader category; robin is a specific species.

A robin is a thrush, but not all thrushes are robins.

robin vs Blackbird

Similar size and often seen in the same habitats.

Blackbirds are entirely black (males) or dark brown (females).

The blackbird is dark, unlike the bright-breasted robin.

Structures de phrases

It is a [noun].

It is a robin.

The [noun] is [verb-ing].

The robin is singing.

I saw a [noun] in the [place].

I saw a robin in the park.

The [noun] is known for [noun/gerund].

The robin is known for its red breast.

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

Despite the cold, the robin sang.

The [noun]'s [noun] underscores [noun].

The robin's song underscores the peace of the morning.

Mixed

If I see a [noun], I [verb].

If I see a robin, I feel happy.

Mixed

There are [number] [noun]s.

There are three robins.

Famille de mots

Noms

robin

robins

Adjectifs

robin-like

Apparenté

bird

songbird

thrush

redbreast

nest

Inscris-toi gratuitement pour voir tous les exemples

Comment l'utiliser

frequency

Very common in everyday English and nature-related topics.

Erreurs courantes

I saw a robbin. → I saw a robin.
Robin is spelled with only one 'b'.
The robin have a red chest. → The robin has a red chest.
Use 'has' for third-person singular subjects.
A robin is a red bird. → A robin has a red breast.
Robins are mostly brown or gray; only the chest is red/orange.
We played a robin tournament. → We played a round-robin tournament.
The idiom for the tournament format is 'round-robin'.
The robins migration is beautiful. → The robin migration is beautiful.
When used as an adjective, 'robin' is usually singular.

Astuces

Look for Movement

Robins have a distinct way of hopping and then stopping suddenly to look for worms. Watch for this 'hop-stop' pattern.

Attract Robins

If you want robins in your garden, leave some leaf litter or dig a small patch of soil to help them find worms easily.

Check the Breast

Remember that young robins don't have red breasts; they are speckled brown to stay hidden from predators.

Be Patient

Robins are curious. If you sit still near a garden, a robin might come quite close to you, allowing for great photos.

Learn the Song

The robin's song is very melodic and 'liquid'. Listen to recordings online to help you identify them in the wild.

Christmas Symbol

When buying Christmas cards in the UK, look for the robin; it's one of the most traditional and popular designs.

Use Idioms

Try using 'round robin' when talking about sports or group emails to sound more like a native speaker.

Single B

Always check your spelling. It's R-O-B-I-N. Just one 'b' in the middle!

Don't Disturb

If you find a robin's nest, keep your distance. Robins are very territorial and might abandon the nest if they feel threatened.

Winter Food

In winter, robins love mealworms and chopped apples. Putting these out can help them survive the cold.

Mémorise-le

Moyen mnémotechnique

Remember 'Red On Breast In Nature' to spell and identify the ROBIN.

Association visuelle

Imagine a small bird wearing a bright red vest standing in the snow or on a green lawn.

Word Web

bird red spring garden song nest worm egg

Défi

Try to describe a robin to a friend without using the word 'bird' or 'red'.

Origine du mot

The word 'robin' originated as a diminutive of the name 'Robert'. It was applied to the bird (specifically the European Robin) in the late Middle Ages as a term of endearment. Before this, the bird was simply known as the 'redbreast'.

Sens originel : Little Robert.

Germanic/French influence.

Contexte culturel

No major sensitivities; generally a very safe and positive word.

Highly positive associations in all English-speaking countries.

The Secret Garden Who Killed Cock Robin? Batman and Robin

Pratique dans la vie réelle

Contextes réels

Gardening

The robin is following the spade.
I have a resident robin.
Feeding the robins.
Gardeners' friend.

Christmas

Robins on Christmas cards.
A winter robin.
Festive robin decorations.
Robin redbreast in the snow.

Spring

The first robin of spring.
Robins are nesting.
Hearing the robin's song.
Spring migration.

Sports

A round robin tournament.
Playing in a round robin.
Round robin format.
Group stage round robin.

Nature Study

Identifying a robin.
Robin's blue eggs.
The robin's habitat.
Observing robin behavior.

Amorces de conversation

"Have you seen any robins in your garden lately?"

"Did you know that American and European robins are different species?"

"I saw a robin today; do you think that means spring is finally here?"

"What's your favorite bird? I really like the robin."

"Have you ever seen a robin's nest with those bright blue eggs?"

Sujets d'écriture

Describe the first time you saw a robin this year. How did it make you feel?

Write a short story from the perspective of a robin building its nest.

Why do you think the robin is such a popular symbol in many cultures?

Compare the robin to another bird you often see in your area.

Imagine a garden without any robins. How would it be different?

Questions fréquentes

10 questions

Yes, many robins migrate, especially the American robin which moves south in winter. However, European robins often stay in the same area all year round if the food supply is sufficient.

Robins are omnivorous. They primarily eat insects, earthworms, and beetles, but they also consume a lot of fruits and berries, especially in the winter when insects are scarce.

The red breast is primarily used for territorial displays. Male robins use their bright chests to warn other males to stay away from their territory during the breeding season.

European robins are known for being quite tame and will often approach humans, especially gardeners. American robins are generally more cautious but still live comfortably near people.

Robin eggs are famous for being a unique, bright shade of light blue, often called 'robin's egg blue'. This color helps camouflage the eggs against the sky when seen from below.

In the wild, most robins live for only about 1 to 2 years due to high mortality rates, but some individuals can live much longer, with the record being over 10 years.

Yes, robins are classified as songbirds. They have complex vocal organs that allow them to create a wide variety of melodic notes and songs.

Robins are famous for singing early in the morning, often being the first birds to start the 'dawn chorus'. They may also sing late into the evening and even at night near streetlights.

A 'round robin' is a type of tournament where every participant plays against every other participant. It can also refer to a letter or petition signed by multiple people.

No, the European robin and American robin are different species. They share a name and a red breast but belong to different bird families and have different sizes and behaviors.

Inscris-toi gratuitement pour les astuces et notes