Carnivore

Yazar

28/12/2025

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1. Definition + Rich Everyday Explanation

Carnivore (noun) ( ka ni vo: ) = an animal or living being that eats meat as its main source of food; more broadly, someone whose diet consists largely or entirely of meat.

In its literal sense, a carnivore is an animal that survives by hunting, killing, or consuming other animals. Lions, wolves, tigers, sharks, and eagles are classic carnivores. Their bodies — sharp teeth, claws, strong jaws, and short digestive systems — are adapted specifically for processing meat.

In modern everyday language, carnivore is also used for humans, especially in discussions about diet and nutrition. Someone may describe themselves as a carnivore to emphasize that they eat a lot of meat, or follow a meat-focused or meat-only eating plan.

The word can also appear metaphorically to describe aggressive or competitive behavior. In this sense, calling someone a carnivore suggests they are ruthless, dominant, or always ready to take advantage of others — similar to a predator in the wild.

Examples from the street:

“Lions are strict carnivores” → they only eat meat
“He jokes that he’s a carnivore” → he loves eating meat
“The business world can feel carnivorous” → competitive and unforgiving

2. Most Common Patterns

a carnivore eats meat → basic biological meaning
strict / obligate carnivore → survives only on meat
human carnivore → person who eats mostly meat
natural carnivore → animal designed for meat consumption
carnivore diet → meat-based eating plan
carnivore instincts → predatory behavior

3. Phrasal Verbs

Note: There are no common phrasal verbs directly containing “carnivore” — these are related expressions about eating, hunting, or survival that native speakers commonly use instead.

feed on → eat as a main food source
Example: “Wolves feed on deer in this region.”
hunt down → chase and kill for food
Example: “Large predators hunt down weaker animals.”

4. Example Sentences

A lion is a powerful carnivore at the top of the food chain
→ It survives by hunting other animals.
Cats are obligate carnivores and need meat to stay healthy
→ Their bodies require animal protein.
He describes himself as a carnivore who can’t imagine life without steak
→ He eats a lot of meat.
The documentary focused on how each carnivore hunts its prey
→ It explained predatory behavior.
Some people switch to a carnivore diet for health reasons
→ They eat mostly animal-based foods.
In the wild, a carnivore must hunt or starve
→ Survival depends on successful hunting.
The ecosystem collapses if its top carnivores disappear
→ Predators keep balance.
He approached negotiations like a carnivore
→ He acted aggressively and competitively.
Each carnivore plays a critical role in nature
→ Predators regulate populations.
The puppy isn’t a true carnivore, but meat is still essential
→ Dogs need animal protein.

5. Personal Examples

When teaching food chains, I explain how every carnivore depends on healthy ecosystems to survive
→ Biology connects balance and survival.
While learning English, I noticed how carnivore is often used metaphorically to describe competitive environments
→ Vocabulary expands beyond biology.