T-learning # Idiom
Speak Like a Native

a grease monkey

Choose the correct definition a, b or c.

a) a Greek gorilla

Sorry, wrong answer. Please try again.

b) a monastery apprentice

Sorry, wrong answer. Please try again.

c) an engine mechanic

Well done ! That’s the right answer.

A grease monkey is a mechanic, someone who spends time repairing car or aircraft engines. It is said of someone who is a mechanically-minded person.

French translation

un mécano, un dépanneur

How NOT to translate : *un singe de la graisse
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Examples in the press

‘Tom Paris is known for his love of cars, so it stands to reason that he would feel right at home in a gorgeous racing simulator. There are nearly 600 unique vehicles available in Forza Horizon 4, enough to satisfy a true “Grease Monkey” like Tom.’

Startrek.com, 17 April 2020

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‘Sebastian Vettel Eyeing a Career in Mechanical Engineering After F1 ?’

‘Vettel is by far the most technically sound driver on the grid. I don’t mean to berate or belittle the other drivers but Seb has a keen eye for machines in general. He often goes the extra mile to learn new things about the car. Furthermore, Vettel’s often seen inspecting cars after a session – always looking out for things that stand out.
When not in an F1 car Vettel transforms into a grease monkey. He’s often tinkering around with his enormous classic motorcycle collection.

Essentiallysports, 28 March 2020

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Everyday usage

He’s no grease monkey except for the stains on his pants.

One day she got it into her head to replace the motor by herself, just like a true grease monkey.


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