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Genetics: meaning, definitions and examples

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genetics

 

[dʒəˈnɛtɪks ]

Definitions

Context #1 | Noun

study of

the study of genes, genetic variation, and heredity in living organisms

Synonyms

heredity, inheritance.

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Word Description / Examples
genetics

This term is generally used in scientific and medical contexts to describe the study of genes, genetic variation, and heredity in living organisms.

  • The study of genetics has increased our understanding of diseases
  • She majored in genetics in college
heredity

Often used in biological or medical contexts to describe the passing of traits from parents to offspring. It generally refers to the natural process without focusing on the scientific study.

  • Heredity plays a large role in determining our eye color
  • He has a strong interest in heredity and family history
inheritance

Commonly used in everyday and legal contexts to describe assets or traits received from someone. It can also mean the reception of physical or genetic traits from parents.

  • She received a large inheritance from her grandmother
  • His inheritance included a genetic predisposition to diabetes

Examples of usage

  • Genetics is a branch of biology that explores how traits are passed from parents to offspring.
  • The field of genetics has made significant advancements in recent years.
Context #2 | Noun

DNA

the genetic material of an organism, responsible for inherited traits

Synonyms

DNA, genes.

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Word Description / Examples
genetics

This is typically used to refer to the field of biology that studies heredity and variation in organisms.

  • She is studying genetics to understand how traits are passed from parents to offspring.
  • Advancements in genetics have led to breakthroughs in medical research.
DNA

Used to describe the molecule that carries the genetic instructions for life, often in scientific and forensic contexts.

  • DNA testing helped solve the crime case.
  • The double helix structure of DNA is crucial for genetic replication.
genes

Refers to the basic physical and functional units of heredity, made up of DNA.

  • Some health conditions are influenced by specific genes.
  • Scientists have discovered a gene responsible for this particular trait.

Examples of usage

  • DNA contains the genetic information that determines an organism's characteristics.
  • Genetics plays a crucial role in the development of an organism.
Context #3 | Noun

genetic engineering

the branch of genetics that involves manipulating genes to create desired traits

Synonyms

biotechnology, gene manipulation.

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Word Description / Examples
genetics

This term is used when discussing the study of genes, genetic variation, and heredity in living organisms.

  • Genetics has greatly advanced our understanding of how traits are inherited
  • She decided to major in genetics to learn more about DNA
biotechnology

Use this word when referring to the use of biological processes, organisms, or systems to develop products and technologies.

  • Biotechnology has paved the way for innovations like GMOs and personalized medicine
  • The startup focuses on biotechnology to create sustainable agricultural solutions
gene manipulation

Employ this phrase when discussing the intentional alteration of genes for various purposes, including research, medicine, or agriculture. It often has a technical and sometimes controversial connotation.

  • Gene manipulation can cure genetic disorders, but it also raises ethical questions
  • Scientists are debating the potential risks and benefits of gene manipulation in human embryos

Examples of usage

  • Genetic engineering has the potential to revolutionize medicine and agriculture.
  • The ethical implications of genetic engineering are a topic of debate.

Interesting Facts

Etymology

  • The word originates from the Greek 'genesis', meaning 'origin' or 'birth', highlighting the connection to how living things develop.
  • It was first used in the early 20th century as the science of heredity became more prominent.

Science

  • Each gene is made up of DNA, which contains the instructions for building and maintaining an organism.
  • Humans share about 99.9% of their DNA with each other, showing how similar we are despite our differences.
  • Genetics plays a crucial role in understanding diseases, allowing scientists to develop targeted treatments.

Pop Culture

  • The popular movie 'Jurassic Park' explores genetics by bringing dinosaurs back to life using ancient DNA.
  • In the film and comic series 'X-Men', genetics is a central theme as mutants possess special abilities based on their DNA.

Ethics

  • Advancements in genetics have sparked discussions about bioethics, particularly related to cloning and genetic modification.
  • The ability to manipulate genes raises questions about safety, morality, and the potential impact on future generations.

Historical Advances

  • Gregor Mendel, known as the father of genetics, discovered the basic principles of heredity through pea plant experiments in the 1860s.
  • The structure of DNA was famously identified by James Watson and Francis Crick in 1953, revolutionizing the field.

Translations

Translations of the word "genetics" in other languages:

🇵🇹 genética

🇮🇳 आनुवंशिकी

🇩🇪 Genetik

🇮🇩 genetika

🇺🇦 генетика

🇵🇱 genetyka

🇯🇵 遺伝学 (いでんがく)

🇫🇷 génétique

🇪🇸 genética

🇹🇷 genetik

🇰🇷 유전학 (yujeonhak)

🇸🇦 علم الوراثة

🇨🇿 genetika

🇸🇰 genetika

🇨🇳 遗传学 (yíchuánxué)

🇸🇮 genetika

🇮🇸 erfðafræði

🇰🇿 генетика

🇬🇪 გენეტიკა

🇦🇿 genetika

🇲🇽 genética

Word Frequency Rank

Position #9,960 indicates this is an advanced-level word. While not essential for basic communication, it will enhance your ability to understand and create more nuanced content.