B2noun 1K

Bacteria

🇬🇧 UK /["/bækˈtɪəriə/","/bækˈtɪəriəm/"]/ 🇺🇸 US /["/bækˈtɪriə/","/bækˈtɪriəm/"]/

Meaning of Bacteria

the simplest and smallest forms of life. Bacteria exist in large numbers in air, water and soil, and also in living and dead creatures and plants, and are often a cause of disease.

In simple words: Very small living things that can make you sick or help you.

Bacteria in a sentence

• Neither chilling nor freezing kills all bacteria.
• antibiotic-resistant bacteria
• Food that is **contaminated with bacteria** may not look or smell bad.
• The spots can become **infected with bacteria**.
• Raw meat and poultry may contain **harmful bacteria**.
• These **beneficial bacteria** already naturally reside in the intestines.
• There are many different strains of this bacterium.

How to use Bacteria

Use 'bacteria' in scientific or health contexts. Avoid using in casual conversations unless discussing health or biology. The word is plural; 'bacterium' is the singular form.

Grammar pattern

standalone noun

Memory hint

Think of 'bacteria' as 'back-tear-ia' where tiny creatures can tear up your health.

Related words

Collocations with Bacteria

• dangerous
• harmful
• beneficial
• attack
• destroy
• fight
• a strain of bacteria

Synonyms for Bacteria

• germs
• microorganisms
• pathogens
• microbes

Opposites of Bacteria

• virus
• fungus

Common mistakes with Bacteria

• Confusing 'bacteria' with 'viruses' – they are different types of microorganisms.
• Using 'bacteria' as a singular noun – 'bacterium' is the correct singular form.
• Mixing up 'bacteria' with 'germs' – not all bacteria are harmful.

Frequently asked questions about Bacteria

What does Bacteria mean?

Very small living things that can make you sick or help you.

What is the definition of Bacteria?

the simplest and smallest forms of life. Bacteria exist in large numbers in air, water and soil, and also in living and dead creatures and plants, and are often a cause of disease.

How do you use Bacteria in a sentence?

Neither chilling nor freezing kills all bacteria.

Can you give another example of Bacteria?

antibiotic-resistant bacteria

What are synonyms for Bacteria?

Common alternatives include germs, microorganisms, pathogens, microbes.

What is the opposite of Bacteria?

Opposite meanings include virus, fungus.

What words go with Bacteria?

It commonly pairs with dangerous, harmful, beneficial, attack, destroy, fight, a strain of bacteria.

What are common mistakes when using Bacteria?

Confusing 'bacteria' with 'viruses' – they are different types of microorganisms. Using 'bacteria' as a singular noun – 'bacterium' is the correct singular form. Mixing up 'bacteria' with 'germs' – not all bacteria are harmful.

How do you pronounce Bacteria?

US: /["/bækˈtɪriə/","/bækˈtɪriəm/"]/, UK: /["/bækˈtɪəriə/","/bækˈtɪəriəm/"]/. Listen to the audio above to hear native pronunciation.

When should I use Bacteria?

Use 'bacteria' in scientific or health contexts. Avoid using in casual conversations unless discussing health or biology. The word is plural; 'bacterium' is the singular form.

What CEFR level is Bacteria?

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