B2noun1K

Gene

UK /["/dʒiːn/"]/US /["/dʒiːn/"]/

Definition

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.

Examples

  • 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.

Usage notes

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.

Collocations

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

Synonyms

  • chromosome
  • DNA segment
  • hereditary unit

Antonyms

  • environment
  • acquired trait

Common mistakes

  • 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.