genetic engineering: meaning, definition, pronunciation and examples
C1Technical/Scientific, Academic, News
Quick answer
What does “genetic engineering” mean?
The deliberate alteration of an organism's genetic material by manipulating its DNA.
Audio
Pronunciation
Definition
Meaning and Definition
The deliberate alteration of an organism's genetic material by manipulating its DNA.
A set of biotechnological techniques used to modify the genes of organisms (plants, animals, microorganisms) to achieve desired traits, produce specific substances, or study gene function.
Dialectal Variation
British vs American Usage
Differences
No significant lexical differences; 'genetic modification' (GM) is a near-synonym used more frequently in public discourse, especially in UK/EU contexts.
Connotations
In British media/public discourse, often associated with greater public skepticism and regulatory caution (e.g., 'GM crops'). In American usage, may carry stronger associations with medical/industrial innovation.
Frequency
Comparably frequent in both varieties within scientific and news contexts.
Grammar
How to Use “genetic engineering” in a Sentence
N of N (the genetic engineering of crops)N for N (genetic engineering for disease resistance)N + to-infinitive (used genetic engineering to create)Vocabulary
Collocations
Examples
Examples of “genetic engineering” in a Sentence
verb
British English
- The bacteria were genetically engineered to produce insulin.
- They are seeking to genetically engineer drought-resistant wheat.
American English
- Scientists genetically engineered a mosquito to resist malaria.
- The company genetically engineered salmon to grow faster.
adverb
British English
- The gene was engineered genetically.
American English
- The trait was introduced genetically via engineering.
adjective
British English
- Genetically engineered crops are widespread.
- The ethical implications of genetically engineered humans are profound.
American English
- Genetically engineered foods are labeled in some states.
- A genetically engineered virus was used in the therapy.
Usage
Meaning in Context
Business
Refers to a high-value sector for agribusiness and pharma (e.g., 'Investing in genetic engineering startups').
Academic
Core term in molecular biology, genetics, and bioethics papers.
Everyday
Used in news discussions about GMO food, gene therapy, or designer babies.
Technical
Precise reference to laboratory techniques like CRISPR-Cas9, transformation, and transfection.
Vocabulary
Synonyms of “genetic engineering”
Vocabulary
Antonyms of “genetic engineering”
Watch out
Common Mistakes When Using “genetic engineering”
- Misspelling as 'genetical engineering'. Confusing with 'genetic counselling' or 'genetic screening' (diagnostic, not manipulative). Using as a verb directly ('They genetic engineered the corn' – incorrect; use 'genetically engineered').
FAQ
Frequently Asked Questions
Not exactly. 'Genetic engineering' is the process. A 'GMO' (Genetically Modified Organism) is the product or result of that process.
Not directly. The standard verb phrase is 'genetically engineer' (e.g., 'to genetically engineer a cell'). 'Engineer' alone can be used in context (e.g., 'engineer a gene'), but 'genetic engineering' itself is a noun.
A primary concern is the potential for unintended long-term consequences in ecosystems or human health, and the ethical implications of 'designing' or altering life forms, particularly in human germline editing.
The modern era is generally dated to the early 1970s with the development of recombinant DNA technology, allowing scientists to cut and paste DNA from different organisms.
The deliberate alteration of an organism's genetic material by manipulating its DNA.
Genetic engineering is usually technical/scientific, academic, news in register.
Genetic engineering: in British English it is pronounced /dʒəˌnet.ɪk ˌen.dʒɪˈnɪə.rɪŋ/, and in American English it is pronounced /dʒəˌnet̬.ɪk ˌen.dʒɪˈnɪr.ɪŋ/. Tap the audio buttons above to hear it.
Phrases
Idioms & Phrases
- “play God (pejorative, associated context)”
- “tinker with the building blocks of life”
Learning
Memory Aids
Mnemonic
Think: GENE-TIC ENGINE-ering: engineering (designing/building) the engine (core machinery) of genes.
Conceptual Metaphor
LIFE AS MACHINERY / GENES AS CODE (to be edited, reprogrammed, hacked).
Practice
Quiz
Which of the following is most closely associated with the core techniques of genetic engineering?