epigenetics: meaning, definition, pronunciation and examples
C2Formal, academic, technical
Quick answer
What does “epigenetics” mean?
The study of heritable changes in gene function that do not involve changes to the DNA sequence itself.
Audio
Pronunciation
Definition
Meaning and Definition
The study of heritable changes in gene function that do not involve changes to the DNA sequence itself.
In a broader scientific and sometimes popular context, it refers to the idea that environmental and behavioural factors (like diet, stress, toxins) can cause modifications that turn genes on or off, potentially affecting health and development, and that some of these changes can be passed to offspring.
Dialectal Variation
British vs American Usage
Differences
No significant differences in meaning or usage. Spelling is identical.
Connotations
Identical in scientific contexts. In popular science writing, it may be slightly more associated with debates on nature vs. nurture in both regions.
Frequency
Equally low-frequency and specialised in both dialects, confined primarily to scientific and academic discourse.
Grammar
How to Use “epigenetics” in a Sentence
[Subject] studies/investigates/explains epigenetics.Epigenetics involves/examines/focuses on [object].Research in/on epigenetics suggests...Vocabulary
Collocations
Examples
Examples of “epigenetics” in a Sentence
verb
British English
- Researchers aim to epigenetically modify cell behaviour.
- The process can be epigenetically regulated.
American English
- Scientists are working to epigenetically reprogram tissues.
- Trauma may epigenetically alter stress responses.
adverb
British English
- The gene was epigenetically silenced.
- The trait is inherited epigenetically.
American English
- The mechanism functions epigenetically.
- These factors act epigenetically to influence health.
adjective
British English
- Epigenetic modifications are reversible.
- They discovered an epigenetic marker for the disease.
American English
- Epigenetic changes can be influenced by diet.
- The study focused on epigenetic inheritance.
Usage
Meaning in Context
Business
Virtually never used, except in biotech/pharma investment contexts.
Academic
Primary domain. Used in biology, medicine, psychology, and social science discussing heritability.
Everyday
Extremely rare. Might appear in popular science articles or documentaries.
Technical
The standard, precise term in genetics, molecular biology, and related life sciences.
Vocabulary
Synonyms of “epigenetics”
Neutral
Weak
Vocabulary
Antonyms of “epigenetics”
Watch out
Common Mistakes When Using “epigenetics”
- Using 'epigenetics' to mean 'changes in the DNA sequence' (it's the opposite).
- Confusing it with 'epidemiology' (the study of disease distribution).
- Using it as an adjective for anything vaguely 'beyond genetics' in a non-scientific way.
FAQ
Frequently Asked Questions
No. Genetics studies the DNA sequence itself, while epigenetics studies reversible, heritable changes that affect gene expression without changing the sequence.
Some epigenetic marks can be passed from one generation to the next (transgenerational epigenetic inheritance), but the patterns are often reset between generations.
DNA methylation is a common epigenetic mechanism where a methyl group is added to DNA, typically turning a gene off.
Not controversial in its core science, but its implications for evolution, medicine, and social policy (e.g., responsibility for health) are actively debated.
The study of heritable changes in gene function that do not involve changes to the DNA sequence itself.
Epigenetics is usually formal, academic, technical in register.
Epigenetics: in British English it is pronounced /ˌɛpɪdʒɪˈnɛtɪks/, and in American English it is pronounced /ˌɛpədʒəˈnɛdɪks/. Tap the audio buttons above to hear it.
Phrases
Idioms & Phrases
- “The ghost in your genes (popular metaphor for epigenetic effects).”
Learning
Memory Aids
Mnemonic
Imagine a GENETIC book (your DNA). EPIgenetics is like a layer of sticky notes (EPI = on top) on the pages that tell the reader which chapters to read or skip, without changing the underlying text.
Conceptual Metaphor
GENETICS IS A BLUEPRINT; EPIGENETICS IS THE SET OF INSTRUCTIONS, HIGHLIGHTERS, AND BOOKMARKS USED ON THAT BLUEPRINT.
Practice
Quiz
Which of the following best describes a key focus of epigenetics?