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Justyna Jupowicz-Kozak
CEO of Professional Science Editing for Scientists @ prosciediting.com
Monkey job
Grammar usage guide and real-world examplesUSAGE SUMMARY
'monkey job' is not part of a standard written English sentence
It is a slang expression used to refer to a tedious or repetitive task. For example: "I don't want to do this paperwork—it's just a monkey job."
⚠ May contain grammatical issues
Table of contents
Usage summary
Human-verified examples
Expert writing tips
Linguistic context
Ludwig's wrap-up
Alternative expressions
FAQs
Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources
Similar Expressions
60 human-written examples
Although casting white faces has become less prevalent among the Asian diaspora community, in remote parts of China, "face jobs" or "monkey jobs" are still common.
News & Media
It's the Arctic Monkeys' job now.
News & Media
The monkeys' job was to move a cursor to the spot that had appeared right after the blue spot.
Science & Research
"The monkeys' job was to touch the array having a greater ratio of black circles to white diamonds". So, if there were three black circles and nine white diamonds on the left, and eight black circles and five white diamonds on the right, the monkey needed to touch the right side of the screen to earn candy.
Academia
The solution, say the Buddhists, is to give the monkey a job.
News & Media
Monkey business.
Job Monkey- Comprehensive job information on: cruise lines, resorts and attractions, land tours, air transportation, and other tourism and hospitality industries.
PlanGrid CEO Ryan saidon-Gee said linking between various PDF files is usually the first monkey-type job that new recruits get, since it's something that no one really likes to do.
News & Media
For example, we empower our software engineers to ensure that they are not just "code monkeys" – their job doesn't consist only of coding or purely back-end development.
News & Media
Lots of websites help you search for seasonal jobs, (Cool Works, Back Door Jobs, Transitions Abroad, Job Monkey), but the best strategy to think like a tourist.
News & Media
Monkeys get the job done using their own brand of intelligence, Fischer writes.
Academia
Expert writing Tips
✓ Best practice
While "monkey job" can effectively convey a sense of tedious or demeaning work, consider your audience and the potential for misinterpretation. In professional contexts, opting for more formal alternatives like "menial task" or "routine assignment" ensures clarity and avoids unintended offense.
⚠ Common error
The term "monkey job" carries negative connotations and might be perceived as insensitive or disrespectful. Avoid using it in formal communication or when addressing individuals directly. Instead, choose neutral and descriptive language to articulate the nature of the task.
Linguistic Context
The phrase "monkey job" functions as a colloquial expression used to describe a task that is repetitive, unskilled, and often considered undesirable. As noted by Ludwig AI, the phrase is non-standard and carries negative connotations.
Expression frequency: Missing
✓ Frequent in
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⚠ Less common in
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Ludwig's WRAP-UP
In summary, the phrase "monkey job" is an informal and somewhat derogatory term used to describe tedious, repetitive, or unskilled work. As Ludwig AI points out, it's considered grammatically incorrect and should be used with caution, particularly in professional or formal settings. Instead, consider employing more neutral alternatives like "menial task" or "routine assignment" to avoid misinterpretation or offense. While the term is understandable, clarity and sensitivity should guide your language choices.
Alternative expressions
Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:
menial task
Replaces "monkey job" with a more formal term for a routine and unskilled task.
tedious chore
Focuses on the boring and repetitive aspect of the job.
mindless work
Highlights the lack of intellectual stimulation involved.
routine assignment
Emphasizes the predictable and standard nature of the job.
exploitative labor
Draws attention to the unfair or oppressive conditions of the work.
demeaning occupation
Focuses on the job's impact on one's dignity and self-respect.
More alternative expressions(6)
FAQs
What does "monkey job" mean?
The phrase "monkey job" is a slang term used to describe a tedious, repetitive, or unskilled task. It often carries negative connotations, implying the work is demeaning or requires little intelligence.
Is it appropriate to use "monkey job" in professional settings?
No, using "monkey job" in professional environments is generally not advisable due to its informal and potentially offensive nature. Opt for more neutral alternatives such as "menial task" or "routine work".
What are some alternatives to "monkey job" that I can use?
Depending on the context, you can use phrases like "tedious chore", "mindless work", "grunt work", or "low-level position".
Why is "monkey job" considered grammatically incorrect?
While the phrase is understandable in informal contexts, it doesn't adhere to standard grammatical structures. Ludwig AI considers it non-standard, suggesting more conventional phrasing for clarity and precision.
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Table of contents
Usage summary
Human-verified examples
Expert writing tips
Linguistic context
Ludwig's wrap-up
Alternative expressions
FAQs
Source & Trust
60%
Authority and reliability
2.5/5
Expert rating
Real-world application tested