cofactor: meaning, definition, pronunciation and examples
C2Formal, Technical
Quick answer
What does “cofactor” mean?
A substance necessary for the activity of an enzyme.
Audio
Pronunciation
Definition
Meaning and Definition
A substance necessary for the activity of an enzyme; a mathematical entity used in matrix computations.
In biochemistry: a non-protein chemical compound required for an enzyme's biological activity. In mathematics: a scalar computed from the entries of a square matrix, used to find the inverse or determinant.
Dialectal Variation
British vs American Usage
Differences
No significant spelling or meaning differences. Pronunciations may vary.
Connotations
Neutral technical term in both varieties.
Frequency
Equally low-frequency and specialized in both varieties, confined to technical fields.
Grammar
How to Use “cofactor” in a Sentence
[cofactor] of [noun] (e.g., cofactor of the enzyme)[cofactor] for [noun] (e.g., cofactor for the reaction)Vocabulary
Collocations
Examples
Examples of “cofactor” in a Sentence
adjective
British English
- The cofactor analysis provided crucial insights.
- The cofactor deficiency was identified.
American English
- The cofactor analysis provided key insights.
- The cofactor deficiency was diagnosed.
Usage
Meaning in Context
Business
Virtually never used.
Academic
Common in biochemistry, molecular biology, and linear algebra papers and textbooks.
Everyday
Not used in everyday conversation.
Technical
Precise, core terminology in its respective fields.
Watch out
Common Mistakes When Using “cofactor”
- Using it as a general synonym for 'cause' or 'component'.
- Confusing biochemical cofactors (e.g., vitamins) with mathematical cofactors in writing.
FAQ
Frequently Asked Questions
No. A coenzyme is one type of organic cofactor (like many vitamins). Cofactor is the broader category, including inorganic ions (like Mg²⁺) as well.
No, 'cofactor' is exclusively a noun in modern English.
Look at the context. Biochemical texts discuss enzymes and reactions. Mathematical texts discuss matrices, determinants, and linear algebra.
No, it is a specialised term. You will only encounter it in technical scientific or mathematical contexts.
A substance necessary for the activity of an enzyme.
Cofactor is usually formal, technical in register.
Cofactor: in British English it is pronounced /ˈkəʊfaktə/, and in American English it is pronounced /ˈkoʊfæktər/. Tap the audio buttons above to hear it.
Phrases
Idioms & Phrases
- “(none - technical term)”
Learning
Memory Aids
Mnemonic
Think: CO- (together with) + FACTOR (something that contributes). It's a factor that works together with an enzyme or matrix.
Conceptual Metaphor
A KEY for a lock (enzyme), a CALCULATION PARTNER for a matrix.
Practice
Quiz
In which of these sentences is 'cofactor' used in a mathematical context?