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What is the Meaning of “Genetic”?

Genetic
/dʒəˈnɛtɪk/

Related to the DNA and traits that parents pass to their children.

Definition of Genetic

Quick Meaning of Genetic

Related to the DNA and traits that parents pass to their children.

Detailed Definition of Genetic

Relating to or determined by genes; concerning heredity and inherited characteristics.

How to Pronounce Genetic

IPA: /dʒəˈnɛtɪk/
gen et ic

Stress pattern: oOo (3-syllable word).

Tip: Stress the second syllable: gen-NE-tic. The initial "g" sounds like "j" in "judge".

Watch out: Pronouncing the "g" as hard /ɡ/ instead of soft /dʒ/.

Full pronunciation guide for “genetic” →

Origin and Etymology of Genetic

From Greek genetikos, from genes (origin, birth).

How to Use Genetic in a Sentence

Each example shows “genetic” with a CEFR level so learners can pick examples that match their fluency.

  • “A genetic test can identify inherited diseases before birth.”
    B1 academic
  • “Your genetic makeup determines your eye color and height.”
    B1 daily
  • “Scientists study genetic mutations to understand disease development.”
    B2 academic

Synonyms and Antonyms of Genetic

Common Synonyms for Genetic

Smart Synonyms for Genetic — When to Use Each

hereditary
For traits passed down through family bloodlines
congenital
For conditions present from birth due to genes

Antonyms of Genetic

See all synonyms for “genetic” →

Common Collocations with Genetic

These phrases pair with “genetic” in everyday English:

  • genetic code
  • genetic disorder
  • genetic engineering
  • genetic testing
  • genetic material

Common Mistakes When Using Genetic

Even fluent speakers slip up with “genetic”. Here’s how to avoid the most common errors:

✗ Wrong: She has genetic blue eyes from her mother.
✓ Correct: She has blue eyes because of her genetic makeup.
Why: Genetic is an adjective; you inherit traits, not genetic itself.
✗ Wrong: The genetics condition runs in his family.
✓ Correct: The genetic condition runs in his family.
Why: Use the adjective "genetic", not the noun "genetics".

Words Confused With Genetic

  • Genetic vs Genomic: Genomic relates to the entire genome; genetic is broader

Other Forms of Genetic

Frequently Asked Questions About Genetic

What is the meaning of "Genetic"?

Related to the DNA and traits that parents pass to their children.

How do you pronounce "Genetic"?

The IPA is /dʒəˈnɛtɪk/. Stress the second syllable: gen-NE-tic. The initial "g" sounds like "j" in "judge".

What part of speech is "Genetic"?

"Genetic" is an adjective at B1 level (Common European Framework).

What are synonyms for "Genetic"?

Common synonyms include hereditary, inherited, congenital.

How do you use "Genetic" in a sentence?

For example: "A genetic test can identify inherited diseases before birth."

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