Biological: meaning, definitions and examples

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biological

 

[ ˌbaɪəˈlɒdʒɪkəl ]

Adjective / Noun
Context #1 | Adjective

study of living organisms

Relating to biology or living organisms. It typically refers to the study of living organisms, including their structure, function, growth, origin, evolution, and distribution.

Synonyms

biologic, life science.

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Word Description / Examples
biological

Used in general contexts to refer to anything related to biology, including living organisms, their functions, and processes.

  • The biological diversity in the rainforest is astounding.
  • She is studying the biological processes involved in cell division.
biologic

Often used in more technical or scientific writing to refer to specific biological substances, processes, or developments. Frequently found in medical or pharmaceutical contexts.

  • The biologic treatment showed promising results in clinical trials.
  • This medication is a biologic that helps regulate immune system activity.
life science

Refers broadly to any scientific discipline that involves the study of living organisms, such as biology, botany, zoology, and related fields.

  • He is pursuing a degree in life science.
  • Research in life science has led to many breakthroughs in medicine.

Examples of usage

  • Biological research is essential for understanding the complexity of life.
  • The biological diversity of the rainforest is unparalleled.
  • His work focuses on the biological mechanisms of cancer development.
Context #2 | Adjective

existing in or produced by living organisms

Of or relating to biological processes or products. It can refer to substances or compounds that are derived from living organisms.

Synonyms

natural, organic.

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Word Description / Examples
biological

Use this word when referring to processes, substances, or systems related to living organisms. It is often used in scientific or medical contexts.

  • The biological diversity of the rainforest is astounding
  • She is studying biological sciences
organic

This word is typically used to describe food products that are grown without synthetic pesticides, chemical fertilizers, or genetically modified organisms. It can also refer to anything derived from living matter.

  • She bought organic vegetables from the farmers' market
  • Organic chemistry is a subject that deals with carbon-based compounds
natural

This word is used to describe anything that exists or occurs in nature without human intervention. It can apply to a wide range of topics including materials, landscapes, and phenomena.

  • The park is a beautiful place to observe natural scenery
  • She prefers using natural ingredients in her recipes

Examples of usage

  • This medication contains biological compounds extracted from plants.
  • The biological functions of the cell are essential for life.
  • The vaccine works by triggering a biological response in the immune system.
Context #3 | Noun

a biological warfare agent

A biological weapon or agent used to cause harm or death to living organisms. It can be in the form of bacteria, viruses, toxins, or other harmful biological substances.

Synonyms

bioagent, bioweapon.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
biological

Used in a general way to refer to anything related to biology or living organisms. It can be used in scientific, educational, or everyday contexts.

  • She was studying biological sciences in college
  • The biological diversity of the rainforest is incredible
bioagent

Typically used in medical or scientific contexts to refer to a biological substance that can have an effect on living organisms, often in relation to diseases or therapies.

  • The research team discovered a new bioagent that can help treat cancer
  • Certain bioagents can be used to speed up the decomposition of organic material
bioweapon

Used in a negative context to refer to a biological substance that is used intentionally to cause harm or death to humans, animals, or plants. Often associated with warfare or terrorism.

  • Bioweapons pose a serious threat to global security
  • There are international treaties in place to prevent the use of bioweapons

Examples of usage

  • Biologicals have the potential to be devastating weapons in warfare.
  • The country was suspected of developing biological weapons.
  • The use of biologicals in warfare is prohibited by international treaties.

Translations

Translations of the word "biological" in other languages:

🇵🇹 biológico

🇮🇳 जैविक

🇩🇪 biologisch

🇮🇩 biologis

🇺🇦 біологічний

🇵🇱 biologiczny

🇯🇵 生物学的 (せいぶつがくてき)

🇫🇷 biologique

🇪🇸 biológico

🇹🇷 biyolojik

🇰🇷 생물학적 (saengmulhakjeok)

🇸🇦 بيولوجي

🇨🇿 biologický

🇸🇰 biologický

🇨🇳 生物的 (shēngwù de)

🇸🇮 biološki

🇮🇸 líffræðilegur

🇰🇿 биологиялық

🇬🇪 ბიოლოგიური (biologiuri)

🇦🇿 bioloji

🇲🇽 biológico

Etymology

The term 'biological' is derived from the Greek words 'bios,' meaning life, and 'logos,' meaning study. The field of biology has evolved over centuries, with early naturalists observing and documenting living organisms. The modern understanding of biology encompasses a wide range of disciplines, from genetics to ecology. The study of biological processes and living organisms has revolutionized medicine, agriculture, and environmental science.

See also: biologically.

Word Frequency Rank

At position #2,773, this word belongs to solid intermediate vocabulary. It's frequently used in both casual and formal contexts and is worth learning for better fluency.