genetic
Relating to genes or heredity, describing traits, characteristics, or diseases passed from parents to offspring through DNA. It is frequently used to explain the biological origin of physical features or medical conditions.
Examples
3 of 5I think my curly hair is genetic because both of my parents have very tight curls.
I think my curly hair is genetic because both of my parents have very tight curls.
The committee is reviewing the ethical implications of genetic modification in agriculture.
The committee is reviewing the ethical implications of genetic modification in agriculture.
He's got that tall build; it's definitely genetic.
He's got that tall build; it's definitely genetic.
Synonyms
Antonyms
Word Family
Memory Tip
Think of the word 'gene' which is the root, and add '-tic' like the sound of a clock. Your 'genes' determine your body's biological 'ticking' from the moment you are born.
Quick Quiz
Scientists are conducting ______ testing to see if the patient is at risk for the disease.
Correct!
The correct answer is: genetic
Examples
I think my curly hair is genetic because both of my parents have very tight curls.
everydayI think my curly hair is genetic because both of my parents have very tight curls.
The committee is reviewing the ethical implications of genetic modification in agriculture.
formalThe committee is reviewing the ethical implications of genetic modification in agriculture.
He's got that tall build; it's definitely genetic.
informalHe's got that tall build; it's definitely genetic.
Recent academic studies have identified the specific genetic markers associated with this rare disorder.
academicRecent academic studies have identified the specific genetic markers associated with this rare disorder.
Our pharmaceutical division is focusing on genetic research to develop personalized medicine.
businessOur pharmaceutical division is focusing on genetic research to develop personalized medicine.
Synonyms
Antonyms
Word Family
Common Collocations
Common Phrases
genetic blueprint
genetic blueprint
genetic lottery
genetic lottery
genetic code
genetic code
Often Confused With
Generic refers to something general or a non-brand product, whereas genetic refers to DNA and heredity.
Congenital means present from birth (regardless of cause), while genetic specifically means caused by genes.
Usage Notes
Use this word when discussing biological inheritance or scientific research involving DNA. It is almost always used as an attributive adjective, meaning it comes before the noun it describes.
Common Mistakes
Learners often use 'genetic' as a noun; remember that 'genetics' is the field of study (noun) and 'genetic' is the description (adjective). Avoid confusing it with 'generic'.
Memory Tip
Think of the word 'gene' which is the root, and add '-tic' like the sound of a clock. Your 'genes' determine your body's biological 'ticking' from the moment you are born.
Word Origin
Derived from the Greek 'genesis', meaning origin, source, or birth.
Grammar Patterns
Cultural Context
In modern society, the term is central to ethical debates regarding CRISPR technology and the possibility of 'designer babies'.
Quick Quiz
Scientists are conducting ______ testing to see if the patient is at risk for the disease.
Correct!
The correct answer is: genetic
Related Vocabulary
A trait is a particular quality or characteristic that makes...
chromosomeA thread-like structure of nucleic acids and protein found i...
mutationA mutation is a permanent change in the genetic material of...
heredityHeredity is the process by which physical or mental qualitie...
DNATo test, sequence, or analyze the genetic material of a biol...
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