B2noun 1K

Gene

🇬🇧 UK /["/dʒiːn/"]/ 🇺🇸 US /["/dʒiːn/"]/

Meaning of Gene

a unit inside a cell that controls a particular quality in a living thing that has been passed on from its parents

In simple words: A part of DNA that controls how living things develop.

Gene in a sentence

• a **dominant/recessive gene**
• genes that code for the colour of the eyes
• Gene mutations are alterations in the DNA code.
• Genes control the development of an embryo.
• The gene is passed on to their children.
• We may be able to identify the genes responsible for disease resistance.
• people who carry the gene that causes this disease
• I've always enjoyed music—it's in the genes.

How to use Gene

Used in scientific contexts to discuss heredity, evolution, or biology. Less common in everyday language unless talking about family traits.

Grammar pattern

standalone noun

Memory hint

Sounds like 'jean'—imagine your jeans are made from a special fabric that comes from genes.

Related words

Collocations with Gene

• dominant
• recessive
• abnormal
• carry
• have
• pass on
• affect something
• be responsible for something
• cause something
• pool
• defect
• mutation
• gene for

Synonyms for Gene

• chromosome
• DNA segment
• hereditary unit

Opposites of Gene

• environment
• acquired trait

Common mistakes with Gene

• Confused with 'genetic', which refers to the study of genes.
• Misunderstood as a synonym for DNA, whereas DNA is a larger structure containing many genes.
• Using as a verb, while it is strictly a noun.

Frequently asked questions about Gene

What does Gene mean?

A part of DNA that controls how living things develop.

What is the definition of Gene?

a unit inside a cell that controls a particular quality in a living thing that has been passed on from its parents

How do you use Gene in a sentence?

a **dominant/recessive gene**

Can you give another example of Gene?

genes that code for the colour of the eyes

What are synonyms for Gene?

Common alternatives include chromosome, DNA segment, hereditary unit.

What is the opposite of Gene?

Opposite meanings include environment, acquired trait.

What words go with Gene?

It commonly pairs with dominant, recessive, abnormal, carry, have, pass on, affect something, be responsible for something, cause something, pool, defect, mutation, gene for.

What are common mistakes when using Gene?

Confused with 'genetic', which refers to the study of genes. Misunderstood as a synonym for DNA, whereas DNA is a larger structure containing many genes. Using as a verb, while it is strictly a noun.

How do you pronounce Gene?

US: /["/dʒiːn/"]/, UK: /["/dʒiːn/"]/. Listen to the audio above to hear native pronunciation.

When should I use Gene?

Used in scientific contexts to discuss heredity, evolution, or biology. Less common in everyday language unless talking about family traits.

What CEFR level is Gene?

"Gene" is at B2 level on the CEFR scale.