The term "white whale" can refer to a couple of different things, and it’s important to understand the context in which it is used.
Basic Definition:
Literal Meaning: A "white whale" is a type of whale that is white when it is an adult. The most common example is the beluga whale, which is known for its white color.
Usage Instructions:
You can use "white whale" when talking about marine life, specifically when discussing whales or animals in the ocean.
Example: "The beluga whale, also known as the white whale, is found in Arctic waters."
Advanced Usage:
Figurative Meaning: In a more figurative sense, the term "white whale" is often used to describe a person’s obsession or something that is very hard to achieve. It comes from the novel "Moby-Dick" by Herman Melville, where the white whale symbolizes a great and elusive goal.
Word Variants:
"White" (adjective): The color that is the absence of color, often associated with purity or cleanliness.
"Whale" (noun): A large marine mammal that lives in oceans and seas.
Different Meanings:
Synonyms:
For the literal meaning, there are no direct synonyms, but you can refer to it as a "beluga whale."
For the metaphorical meaning, synonyms include "obsession," "quixotic pursuit," or "impossible dream."
Idioms and Phrasal Verbs:
While "white whale" itself is not typically part of idiomatic expressions or phrasal verbs, you can use phrases like "chasing a white whale" to describe pursuing something unattainable.
Conclusion:
In summary, "white whale" can refer to a specific type of whale that is white when grown, or it can symbolize an obsession or a difficult goal.