have young
Học thuậtThân thiện
Definition
- Verb:
- To give birth to offspring: The phrase "have young" specifically describes the act of an animal producing its young. It is a biological term focusing on the reproductive event itself.
Usage
- This verb phrase is used almost exclusively for animals, particularly in zoological, biological, or general descriptive contexts. It is a formal and precise alternative to more general terms like "give birth."
- It is typically used in the simple present or past tense to state a fact about an animal's reproductive cycle or a specific birthing event.
Examples
- Verb:
- Most mammals have young in the spring when food is abundant.
- The researchers observed the endangered tigers that had young last season.
- This species of deer has young only once every two years.
Advanced Usage
- The phrase can be used in passive constructions, though this is less common.
- Young are had in secluded dens for safety.
- It can be part of a defining relative clause describing an animal's behavior.
- Animals that have young requiring extensive care often have complex social structures.
Variants and Related Words
- Calve (verb): To give birth to a calf (specifically for cows, whales, elephants, and other large mammals).
- The whales calve in these warm waters.
- Whelp (verb): To give birth to puppies or young of a dog or similar animal (e.g., fox, wolf).
- The dog whelped a litter of six.
- Farrow (verb): To give birth to piglets.
- The sow will farrow next week.
- Foal (verb): To give birth to a foal (horse).
- The mare foaled a healthy colt.
- Lamb (verb): To give birth to lambs (sheep).
- The ewe is expected to lamb tonight.
Synonyms
- Give birth: A more general and common term applicable to both animals and humans.
- Bear young: A very close synonym, often used interchangeably in formal writing.
- Produce offspring: A more technical or scientific synonym.
Related Phrases
- To be with young: A phrase meaning to be pregnant (used for animals).
- The zoo confirmed the panda is with young.
- To raise young: To care for offspring after they are born. This is a distinct phase following "having young."
- After having young, the birds take turns raising them.
Verb
- birth
- the whales calve at this time of year