Inducer: meaning, definitions and examples

Typically used in scientific or technical contexts to describe a factor that initiates or encourages a process.

• The presence of the inducer led to the activation of the gene

Commonly used in chemistry to refer to a substance that speeds up a chemical reaction but is not consumed by it. It can also be used metaphorically to describe something that triggers change or action.

• The new policy acted as a catalyst for economic growth
• In the reaction, platinum served as the catalyst

Primarily used in medical, biological, or everyday contexts to refer to a substance or factor that increases physical or mental activity. It can sometimes have a negative connotation when referring to drugs or substances with potential for abuse.

• Caffeine is a common stimulant that helps people stay awake
• The doctor prescribed a stimulant to treat the patient's ADHD

Generally used in various contexts to describe something that precipitates an event or reaction. It can have a neutral or negative connotation depending on the situation.

• The news of the merger was the trigger for the stock market crash
• Loud noises can be a trigger for anxiety in some individuals

Scientific settings, particularly in biology or chemistry, where something triggers a response or reaction.

• The inducer caused the cells to differentiate.
• We added an inducer to start the reaction.

Primarily in scientific contexts, notably in biochemistry and molecular biology, where a substance increases the activity of an enzyme or another molecule.

• The enzyme requires an activator to function properly.
• Adding the activator increased the reaction rate.

Used in both scientific and general contexts to describe something that starts a process or event.

• The chemical initiator started the polymerization process.
• He was the initiator of the project.

Common in scientific contexts, especially genetics, where it signifies a sequence that increases gene expression; also in general contexts to describe someone who encourages or advocates for something.

• The promoter region of the gene was highly active.
• She is a promoter of healthy living.