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Biological Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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biological

[ˌbaɪəˈlɒdʒɪkəl ]

Definitions

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.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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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.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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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

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Interesting Facts

Science

  • Biological systems include all living organisms, from tiny bacteria to large whales, and how they interact with each other and their environment.
  • The study of biological processes has led to breakthroughs in medicine, agriculture, and environmental conservation.

Medicine

  • Biological therapies utilize living cells to treat or prevent diseases, showing how life sciences can be applied in healthcare.
  • Examples of biological products include vaccines and monoclonal antibodies, which help the body fight diseases.

Ecology

  • Biological diversity, or biodiversity, is crucial for ecosystem stability, with varied life forms playing different roles.
  • Conservation efforts focus on protecting biological habitats to ensure the survival of different species and maintain ecological balance.

Literature

  • Biological themes often explore the connections between nature and humanity, reflecting on how we are part of a larger life network.
  • Literary works frequently draw upon biological concepts to illustrate the complexities of human existence and relationships.

Origin of 'biological'

Main points about word origin

  • The prefix 'bio-' comes from the Greek word 'bios', meaning 'life'.
  • The term 'biological' has been in use since the early 19th century, reflecting the growing interest in studying life sciences.

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.