biocontrol: meaning, definition, pronunciation and examples
C1Technical/Scientific
Quick answer
What does “biocontrol” mean?
The method of controlling pests using natural predators, parasites, or pathogens rather than chemical pesticides.
Audio
Pronunciation
Definition
Meaning and Definition
The method of controlling pests using natural predators, parasites, or pathogens rather than chemical pesticides.
The broader field of managing agricultural, horticultural, or environmental problems using biological agents, including the organisms used and the strategies for their deployment.
Dialectal Variation
British vs American Usage
Differences
The term is equally used and understood in both varieties. Spelling is consistent. 'Biological control' is often used as a full form synonym.
Connotations
Connotes environmentally friendly, sustainable, and often integrated pest management strategies.
Frequency
Slightly more frequent in formal agricultural and environmental discourse than in general use.
Grammar
How to Use “biocontrol” in a Sentence
N of N (biocontrol of pests)N for N (biocontrol for aphids)N using N (biocontrol using nematodes)Vocabulary
Collocations
Examples
Examples of “biocontrol” in a Sentence
verb
British English
- They plan to biocontrol the beetle infestation with a specific fungus.
American English
- The agency is funding research to biocontrol the invasive weed species.
adverb
British English
- The pest was managed biocontrol, reducing chemical inputs.
American English
- They decided to proceed biocontrol, introducing predatory insects.
adjective
British English
- The biocontrol approach proved more sustainable.
American English
- They reviewed several biocontrol strategies.
Usage
Meaning in Context
Business
Used in the agricultural supply industry when marketing natural pest management products.
Academic
Common in ecology, agriculture, and environmental science papers.
Everyday
Rare in casual conversation; might be used by gardeners or farmers.
Technical
Precise term in integrated pest management (IPM) protocols and research.
Vocabulary
Synonyms of “biocontrol”
Strong
Neutral
Weak
Vocabulary
Antonyms of “biocontrol”
Watch out
Common Mistakes When Using “biocontrol”
- Misspelling as 'bio-control' (though hyphenated form is sometimes accepted). Confusing with 'biocontainment' (which is about containing biological hazards).
FAQ
Frequently Asked Questions
While generally safer than chemicals, biocontrol requires careful study to avoid introducing non-native agents that could become invasive themselves.
Yes, for example, introducing ladybugs to control aphids or using nematodes for grubs are common home gardening biocontrol methods.
Biocontrol is one tool within the broader IPM strategy, which may also include cultural, mechanical, and selective chemical methods.
No, the use of one organism to control another dates back centuries, but modern scientific biocontrol began in the late 19th century.
The method of controlling pests using natural predators, parasites, or pathogens rather than chemical pesticides.
Biocontrol is usually technical/scientific in register.
Biocontrol: in British English it is pronounced /ˌbaɪəʊkənˈtrəʊl/, and in American English it is pronounced /ˌbaɪoʊkənˈtroʊl/. Tap the audio buttons above to hear it.
Phrases
Idioms & Phrases
- “(to be) part of the biocontrol equation”
Learning
Memory Aids
Mnemonic
Think: BIO (life) + CONTROL (managing). Using living things to CONTROL pests.
Conceptual Metaphor
NATURE AS A REGULATOR (employing natural systems to govern/manage other natural systems).
Practice
Quiz
What is the primary goal of biocontrol?