C1noun3K

Reproduction

UK /["/ˌriːprəˈdʌkʃn/"]/US /["/ˌriːprəˈdʌkʃn/"]/

Definition

the act or process of producing babies, young animals or plants

In simple words: The process of making new animals or plants.

Examples

  • Reproduction in animals can be sexual or asexual, depending on the species.
  • The reproduction of the painting was so detailed that it looked like the original.
  • Many plants rely on reproduction through seeds to propagate their species.
  • His book includes a reproduction of an ancient manuscript on the cover.
  • Reproduction rates in certain bacteria can be extremely rapid under ideal conditions.
  • The museum displayed a reproduction of the famous sculpture in the main hall.

Usage notes

Use 'reproduction' in biological contexts, such as discussing species or offspring. Avoid using it in casual conversations unless about biology.

Grammar pattern

reproduce + object

Memory hint

Think of 'reproduce' like a 're-puzzle' of life—putting pieces together to create new forms.

Collocations

  • animal
  • human
  • plant
  • occur
  • take place
  • a method of reproduction
  • accurate
  • faithful
  • good-quality
  • give
  • provide
  • ensure
  • accurate
  • faithful
  • good-quality
  • give
  • provide
  • ensure
  • exact
  • excellent
  • faithful
  • antique
  • furniture
  • reproduction from
  • reproduction of

Synonyms

  • propagation
  • breeding
  • generation
  • multiplication
  • replication

Antonyms

  • infertility
  • sterility

Common mistakes

  • Confused with 'production' regarding making something.
  • Misuse in contexts unrelated to biology.
  • Incorrectly pluralize as 'reproductions' when referring to the process.