Translation guide
The animal 'monkey' is most commonly 猿 (さる) in Japanese. There are also specific terms for different species, and some figurative uses.
monkey (animal)
Referring to a monkey in general, or the most common native species (Japanese macaque).
The standard word for monkey. Covers most contexts.
公園に猿がいた。
There was a monkey in the park.
Monkeys leap from tree to tree.
Polite or affectionate prefix 'o' added. Often used when speaking to children or in a cute context.
The monkey is eating a banana!
Referring to a particular type of monkey, such as a chimpanzee or gorilla (often called 'apes' in English, but sometimes loosely 'monkey').
Calling someone a monkey in a playful or mildly scolding way.
Someone who copies others, like the phrase 'monkey see, monkey do'.
Proverb meaning even experts make mistakes.
A well-known proverb. Used to console someone who made a mistake.
They say even monkeys fall from trees, so don't worry about it.
In English, 'monkey' often excludes apes like chimpanzees and gorillas. In casual Japanese, 猿 can sometimes cover both, but in scientific or precise contexts, apes are 類人猿 (るいじんえん). If you need to be accurate, use the specific species name.
Adding お makes it sound cuter and softer. It's common when talking to or about small children. Without お, it can sound blunt or like you're calling someone an actual monkey.
Look at that monkey!
Gorillas beat their chests.
Orangutan.
Orangutans live in the forest.
テナガザルは腕が長い。
Gibbons have long arms.
You little monkey! (playful or annoyed)