Mutation Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations
๐งฌ
mutation
[mjuหหteษชสษn ]
Definitions
genetics
The process by which a gene or a chromosome undergoes a change in its structure, resulting in a new trait or characteristic.
Synonyms
genetic alteration, genetic variation.
Which Synonym Should You Choose?
| Word | Description / Examples |
|---|---|
| mutation |
This term is often used in the context of biology or genetics to describe a change in the DNA sequence. It can refer to naturally occurring changes or those induced by environmental factors.
|
| genetic variation |
This term is generally used to refer to the diversity in gene frequencies within a population, which can be the result of mutations, genetic recombination, and other factors.
|
| genetic alteration |
This phrase is more technical and is often used in medical or scientific discussions about deliberate changes to genetic material, such as through genetic engineering or gene therapy.
|
Examples of usage
- Mutations can be caused by various factors such as radiation, chemicals, or errors in DNA replication.
- Some mutations are harmful, while others can be beneficial for an organism's survival.
- Mutations play a key role in evolution by introducing genetic diversity within a population.
linguistics
A change in the form of a word, typically involving the addition, deletion, or rearrangement of letters, sounds, or syllables.
Synonyms
phonetic change, word alteration.
Which Synonym Should You Choose?
| Word | Description / Examples |
|---|---|
| mutation |
Best used in a scientific or biological context to describe a change in the genetic material of an organism.
|
| phonetic change |
Used in a linguistic context to describe changes in the sounds of speech over time within a language.
|
| word alteration |
Can be used in various contexts to describe changes or adaptations in wording, including linguistics, literature, or everyday communication.
|
Examples of usage
- The English word 'mouse' underwent a mutation in its plural form, becoming 'mice'.
- Linguistic mutations can occur over time as languages evolve and adapt to new influences.
biology
A sudden and visible structural change in a plant or animal, often resulting from a genetic alteration.
Synonyms
Which Synonym Should You Choose?
| Word | Description / Examples |
|---|---|
| mutation |
Used primarily in a biological or genetic context to describe a change in the DNA sequence that may lead to different traits or characteristics.
|
| abnormality |
Often used in a medical or scientific setting to describe something that deviates from the normal structure or function, implying a potential issue or problem.
|
| variation |
Generally used to describe differences or deviations in a set of data, traits, or characteristics. It implies a range of normal differences rather than something inherently negative.
|
Examples of usage
- The mutation in the plant's leaves caused them to turn a vibrant shade of purple.
- Scientists studied the mutation in the butterfly's wing pattern to understand its genetic basis.
Translations
To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.
Interesting Facts
Biology
- Some mutations can be beneficial, helping organisms adapt better to their environments, like a chameleon changing colors.
- Harmful mutations can lead to diseases, such as cancer, where cells grow uncontrollably due to genetic errors.
- Not all mutations are bad; many are neutral and have no effect on the organism's survival.
Pop Culture
- Mutants in comic books, like the X-Men, often represent the idea of change and diversity in human abilities.
- Shows like 'Pokรฉmon' highlight the idea of evolution, which is a form of mutation over time, changing one species into another.
Evolutionary Science
- Mutations provide the raw material for evolution by introducing new traits, which can be selected over generations.
- The famous 'survival of the fittest' concept relies heavily on mutations allowing some individuals to thrive in their environment.
Medicine
- Understanding mutations is crucial in medicine; drug resistance in bacteria can occur due to genetic changes.
- Research into genetic mutations has led to advancements in gene therapy, offering potential cures for genetic disorders.
Origin of 'mutation'
Main points about word origin
- The word originates from the Latin 'mutatio', meaning 'change'. This helps us understand that mutations are about things being different.
- In the late 19th century, scientists began to use 'mutation' in biological contexts to describe genetic changes.
The word 'mutation' originated from the Latin word 'mutatio', which means 'a changing'. The concept of mutation has been observed and studied across various scientific fields, including genetics, linguistics, and biology. The understanding of mutations has greatly contributed to the fields of evolutionary biology, genetic engineering, and language development.