B2adjective2K

Biological

UK /["/ˌbaɪəˈlɒdʒɪkl/"]/US /["/ˌbaɪəˈlɑːdʒɪkl/"]/

Definition

connected with the science of biology

In simple words: Relating to living things and their processes.

Examples

  • the biological sciences
  • the biological effects of radiation
  • the **biological control** of pests *(= using living to destroy them, not chemicals)
  • a child’s **biological parents** *(= natural parents, not the people who adopted him/her)*
  • biological and non-biological powders

Usage notes

Use 'biological' to discuss topics related to life sciences, like biology or genetics. It is appropriate in academic and professional contexts but may sound overly technical in casual conversation.

Grammar pattern

standalone adjective

Memory hint

Remember 'bio' for life, like 'biology', and think of plants and animals.

Collocations

  • biological process
  • biological system
  • biological research
  • biological diversity
  • biological factors

Synonyms

  • organic
  • living
  • natural
  • life-related
  • physiological

Antonyms

  • artificial
  • synthetic

Common mistakes

  • Confusing 'biological' with 'biography', which refers to a person's life story.
  • Using 'biological' in place of 'natural' when not talking about living systems.
  • Incorrectly using 'biological' as a noun.