chromosome number: meaning, definition, pronunciation and examples
C1Technical / Academic
Quick answer
What does “chromosome number” mean?
The total number of chromosomes present in the nucleus of a somatic cell of a given organism.
Audio
Pronunciation
Definition
Meaning and Definition
The total number of chromosomes present in the nucleus of a somatic cell of a given organism.
A specific, countable characteristic of a species or cell type, often symbolized as 2n for diploid somatic cells or n for haploid gametes. It can also refer to an abnormal count in pathological conditions like aneuploidy.
Dialectal Variation
British vs American Usage
Differences
No significant differences in meaning or usage. Spelling of 'number' remains consistent.
Connotations
Identical technical connotations in both varieties.
Frequency
Equally common in both British and American academic biology contexts.
Grammar
How to Use “chromosome number” in a Sentence
The chromosome number of [organism] is [number].Researchers determined the chromosome number.A change in chromosome number can cause [effect].Vocabulary
Collocations
Examples
Examples of “chromosome number” in a Sentence
verb
British English
- The lab will chromosome-number the sample cells.
- They are chromosome-numbering the tumour biopsy.
American English
- The lab will determine the chromosome number for the sample.
- They are karyotyping to establish the chromosome number.
adverb
British English
- The cells divided chromosome-number normally.
- Not applicable in standard usage.
American English
- The cells divided, maintaining the chromosome number normally.
- Not applicable in standard usage.
adjective
British English
- The chromosome-number data was conclusive.
- A chromosome-number abnormality was detected.
American English
- The chromosome number data was conclusive.
- A chromosome number abnormality was detected.
Usage
Meaning in Context
Business
Virtually never used.
Academic
Core term in genetics, cytology, evolutionary biology, and medicine.
Everyday
Rare, only in simplified discussions of genetics or health conditions like Down syndrome.
Technical
Precise term used in laboratory reports, research papers, and textbooks to describe a fundamental cellular characteristic.
Vocabulary
Synonyms of “chromosome number”
Strong
Neutral
Weak
Vocabulary
Antonyms of “chromosome number”
Watch out
Common Mistakes When Using “chromosome number”
- Using 'chromosome number' to refer to the identification label of a specific chromosome (e.g., 'chromosome number 21'). The correct term for that is 'chromosome 21'.
- Writing 'amount of chromosomes' instead of 'number of chromosomes'.
FAQ
Frequently Asked Questions
Most somatic (body) cells have the diploid number of 46. Exceptions include gametes (sperm/egg, haploid n=23) and some aneuploid cells in conditions like cancer.
Yes, through errors in meiosis or mitosis (nondisjunction), resulting in aneuploidy (e.g., Trisomy 21). Polyploidy (multiples of the full set) is common in plants and some animals.
'Chromosome number' is the simple count (e.g., 46). 'Karyotype' is a more detailed description including the number, sizes, and banding patterns of the chromosomes, often presented as an image.
It is a fundamental characteristic for species identification, understanding evolutionary relationships, diagnosing genetic disorders, and studying cell division and reproduction.
The total number of chromosomes present in the nucleus of a somatic cell of a given organism.
Chromosome number is usually technical / academic in register.
Chromosome number: in British English it is pronounced /ˈkrəʊ.mə.səʊm ˈnʌm.bər/, and in American English it is pronounced /ˈkroʊ.mə.soʊm ˈnʌm.bɚ/. Tap the audio buttons above to hear it.
Phrases
Idioms & Phrases
- “Not applicable for this technical term.”
Learning
Memory Aids
Mnemonic
Think: 'CHROmeosomes are SO many' - the SO reminds you it's about the SUM (number).
Conceptual Metaphor
The chromosome number is the **inventory count** of the genetic warehouse; it's the **headcount** of the chromosome team in a cell.
Practice
Quiz
What does 'chromosome number' specifically refer to?