How to Pronounce "banana republic"
expression
buh-NAN-uh ri-PUB-lik
buh-NAH-nuh rip-UB-lik
Definition
A 'banana republic' is a term for a small, unstable country—usually in Central or South America—with a weak government, corrupt leaders, and an economy dependent on a single export (like bananas). It is often used in a negative or critical way.
IPA Transcription
American English
bəˈnænə/ /ɹiˈpəbɫək/, /ɹiˈpəbɫɪk
British English
bɐnˈɑːnɐ/ /ɹɪpˈʌblɪk
Simplified Pronunciation
US
buh-NAN-uh ri-PUB-lik
UK
buh-NAH-nuh rip-UB-lik
Listen in Context
The country became a banana republic after years of corruption.
Some people call any unstable government a banana republic.
The phrase banana republic is not meant as a compliment.
After the scandal, critics started calling the administration a banana republic.