gram's method: meaning, definition, pronunciation and examples
C2Specialised Technical/Scientific
Quick answer
What does “gram's method” mean?
A microbiological technique used to classify bacteria into two major groups (Gram-positive and Gram-negative) based on their cell wall's ability to retain a crystal violet stain after washing with alcohol or acetone.
Audio
Pronunciation
Definition
Meaning and Definition
A microbiological technique used to classify bacteria into two major groups (Gram-positive and Gram-negative) based on their cell wall's ability to retain a crystal violet stain after washing with alcohol or acetone.
Refers broadly to the staining procedure itself, the resultant classification system, and its diagnostic applications in medicine and research. Can also imply the broader implications of this classification for treatment and identification.
Dialectal Variation
British vs American Usage
Differences
No significant difference in usage. Spelling conventions for related terms may differ (e.g., 'colour' vs. 'color' in descriptions).
Connotations
Identical technical connotations.
Frequency
Equally common in professional contexts in both regions. 'Gram stain' is a more frequent synonym in daily lab parlance.
Grammar
How to Use “gram's method” in a Sentence
Gram's method is performed to identify...Using Gram's method, the technician determined...The bacteria were classified by/via Gram's method.Vocabulary
Collocations
Examples
Examples of “gram's method” in a Sentence
verb
British English
- The sample was Gram-stained and examined.
- We need to Gram this culture.
American English
- The lab Gram-stained the isolate.
- Gram the slide next.
adjective
British English
- The Gram-staining characteristics were typical.
- A Gram-positive cocci was observed.
American English
- The Gram stain result was clear.
- It's a Gram-negative rod.
Usage
Meaning in Context
Business
Not used.
Academic
Used in microbiology, medical, and life science publications and lectures.
Everyday
Virtually never used.
Technical
Core term in clinical pathology, bacteriology labs, and medical diagnostics. Used in reports and standard operating procedures.
Vocabulary
Synonyms of “gram's method”
Strong
Neutral
Weak
Vocabulary
Antonyms of “gram's method”
Watch out
Common Mistakes When Using “gram's method”
- Incorrect capitalisation: 'gram's method' (should be 'Gram's').
- Omitting the possessive: 'Gram method'.
- Confusing it with a unit of mass ('gram').
FAQ
Frequently Asked Questions
It was developed by the Danish bacteriologist Hans Christian Gram in 1884.
Gram-positive bacteria have a thick peptidoglycan layer that retains the crystal violet stain, appearing purple. Gram-negative bacteria have a thinner peptidoglycan layer and an outer membrane; they lose the violet stain and take up the counterstain (safranin), appearing pink/red.
Yes, absolutely. It is a rapid, inexpensive, and fundamental first step in bacterial identification that guides initial antibiotic therapy, especially in urgent clinical situations.
Yes, in informal lab jargon. For example, 'We need to Gram that culture' means to perform the Gram staining procedure on it.
A microbiological technique used to classify bacteria into two major groups (Gram-positive and Gram-negative) based on their cell wall's ability to retain a crystal violet stain after washing with alcohol or acetone.
Gram's method is usually specialised technical/scientific in register.
Gram's method: in British English it is pronounced /ɡræmz ˈmɛθəd/, and in American English it is pronounced /ɡræmz ˈmɛθəd/. Tap the audio buttons above to hear it.
Learning
Memory Aids
Mnemonic
GRAMmar for Bacteria: Gram's method Gives Rules And Morphology (positive or negative).
Conceptual Metaphor
A KEY or LITMUS TEST that unlocks a fundamental classification, dividing a complex world into two clear categories.
Practice
Quiz
What is the primary purpose of Gram's method?