genetic
Genetic (adj) means relating to genes or heredity. Example: “The disease has a strong genetic component.”
How to use genetic
Learner’s notesIn plain EnglishTo do with genes, heredity, or the origins of something.
Fill the gap
Can you complete this real example?
The disease has a strong _____ component.
Etymology
Coined from genesis ("origin"), modelled on words like "antithesis"/"antithetic".
Synonyms
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Rhymes for genetic
Frequently asked questions
What does “genetic” mean?
The word “genetic” means relating to genes or heredity. In plain terms, to do with genes, heredity, or the origins of something.
How do you pronounce “genetic”?
“Genetic” is pronounced juh-NEHT-ihk (/d͡ʒəˈnɛt.ɪk/ in IPA).
How do you use “genetic” in a sentence?
Here is “genetic” used in a sentence: “The disease has a strong genetic component.”
What is another word for “genetic”?
Words with a similar meaning to “genetic” include genealogical, genic and hereditary.
What part of speech is “genetic”?
“Genetic” is an adjective.
Is “genetic” a common word?
“Genetic” is a fairly common word in modern English, usually learned at around the B1 level.
How many meanings does “genetic” have?
“Genetic” has 2 distinct senses listed in this dictionary. The most common is: relating to genes or heredity.
What is the difference between genetic and hereditary?
'Genetic' relates to genes and can describe traits caused by genes whether or not they are passed on. 'Hereditary' specifically means passed from parent to child through the generations, so a genetic condition can arise from a new mutation and not be hereditary.
What is the difference between genetic and congenital?
'Genetic' means relating to genes or heredity, pointing to the biological cause. 'Congenital' simply means present at birth, whatever the cause; a congenital trait may be genetic, but it can also result from other factors before birth.
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