alpha-linolenic acid: meaning, definition, pronunciation and examples
LowTechnical/Scientific
Quick answer
What does “alpha-linolenic acid” mean?
An essential omega-3 fatty acid found in plants, necessary for human health.
Audio
Pronunciation
Definition
Meaning and Definition
An essential omega-3 fatty acid found in plants, necessary for human health.
A polyunsaturated fatty acid (C18H30O2) with three double bonds, the first of which is located at the third carbon from the methyl end (n-3). It is a precursor to other important omega-3 fatty acids like EPA and DHA in the body.
Dialectal Variation
British vs American Usage
Differences
No significant differences in meaning or usage. Spelling of related terms (e.g., 'flavour' vs. 'flavor') may differ in broader text.
Connotations
None beyond its scientific definition.
Frequency
Equally low frequency in both varieties, confined to specialist discourse.
Grammar
How to Use “alpha-linolenic acid” in a Sentence
[Alpha-linolenic acid] is found in [flaxseeds].[Flaxseeds] are a rich source of [alpha-linolenic acid].The body converts [alpha-linolenic acid] into [EPA].Vocabulary
Collocations
Examples
Examples of “alpha-linolenic acid” in a Sentence
adjective
British English
- The alpha-linolenic acid content is listed on the label.
- Flaxseed is an alpha-linolenic acid source.
American English
- The alpha-linolenic acid content is listed on the label.
- Flaxseed is an alpha-linolenic acid source.
Usage
Meaning in Context
Business
Used in marketing for health foods, supplements, and nutritional products.
Academic
Core term in biochemistry, nutrition science, and physiology research papers.
Everyday
Rarely used; might appear on food labels or in health articles.
Technical
Precise term in laboratory analysis, dietary formulation, and clinical nutrition guidelines.
Vocabulary
Synonyms of “alpha-linolenic acid”
Vocabulary
Antonyms of “alpha-linolenic acid”
Watch out
Common Mistakes When Using “alpha-linolenic acid”
- Misspelling as 'alpha-linoleic acid' (which is an omega-6 acid).
- Pronouncing 'linolenic' with stress on the first syllable (/ˈlaɪnə/) instead of the third (/lɪnəˈlɛnɪk/).
- Using it as a countable noun (e.g., 'an alpha-linolenic acid') – it is uncountable.
FAQ
Frequently Asked Questions
No. Fish oil contains the omega-3s EPA and DHA. Alpha-linolenic acid (ALA) is the plant-based omega-3 that the body can partially convert into EPA and DHA.
Flaxseeds (and flaxseed oil), chia seeds, hemp seeds, walnuts, and their oils are among the richest plant sources.
It is termed 'essential' because the human body cannot synthesize it; it must be obtained from the diet for normal physiological function.
The conversion rate of ALA to DHA in the body is very low (often below 5%), so relying solely on ALA may not provide sufficient DHA for optimal health, particularly for brain function.
An essential omega-3 fatty acid found in plants, necessary for human health.
Alpha-linolenic acid is usually technical/scientific in register.
Alpha-linolenic acid: in British English it is pronounced /ˌælfə lɪnəˈlɛnɪk ˈæsɪd/, and in American English it is pronounced /ˌælfə ˌlɪnəˈlɛnɪk ˈæsɪd/. Tap the audio buttons above to hear it.
Learning
Memory Aids
Mnemonic
Think 'ALA' for 'A Leafy Acid' – it's the plant-based omega-3 found in leafy greens and seeds.
Conceptual Metaphor
A BUILDING BLOCK or PRECURSOR (for creating other vital compounds in the body).
Practice
Quiz
Which of the following is the best dietary source of alpha-linolenic acid (ALA)?