nuclear membrane
C1/C2 (Specialized)Technical/Scientific
Definition
Meaning
The double-layered lipid bilayer that surrounds the nucleus of a eukaryotic cell, separating its contents from the cytoplasm.
A selectively permeable membrane that regulates the passage of molecules (like RNA and proteins) between the nucleus and cytoplasm via nuclear pores; also referred to as the nuclear envelope.
Linguistics
Semantic Notes
In cell biology, 'nuclear membrane' and 'nuclear envelope' are often used interchangeably, though 'envelope' may more precisely imply the double membrane structure and its associated pore complexes and lamina.
Dialectal Variation
British vs American Usage
Differences
No significant lexical differences. Spelling follows regional conventions (e.g., 'organisation' vs. 'organization' in surrounding text).
Connotations
Identical technical meaning in both varieties.
Frequency
Equally common in academic and research contexts in both regions.
Vocabulary
Collocations
Grammar
Valency Patterns
The nuclear membrane [verb: breaks down/reforms/regulates] during [process: mitosis/prophase].Vocabulary
Synonyms
Neutral
Weak
Vocabulary
Antonyms
Usage
Context Usage
Business
Virtually never used.
Academic
Core terminology in cell biology, genetics, and related life sciences.
Everyday
Extremely rare outside educational or popular science contexts.
Technical
The standard term in laboratory protocols, research papers, and textbooks describing nuclear structure and transport.
Examples
By CEFR Level
- The nucleus is surrounded by a protective nuclear membrane.
- Proteins destined for the nucleus must contain a signal to cross the nuclear membrane.
- During mitosis, the nuclear membrane disassembles to allow chromosome segregation and subsequently reforms around the daughter nuclei.
Learning
Memory Aids
Mnemonic
Think of a secure, porous fence (the membrane) around the cell's command centre (the nucleus), controlling what goes in and out.
Conceptual Metaphor
A GATEKEEPER/BORDER CONTROL for the cell's genetic headquarters.
Watch out
Common Pitfalls
Translation Traps (for Russian speakers)
- Direct calque 'ядерная мембрана' is correct and commonly used.
Common Mistakes
- Confusing it with the cell (plasma) membrane. Misspelling as 'nucular membrane'. Using 'nucleus membrane' (incorrect possession).
Practice
Quiz
What is a primary function of the nuclear membrane?
FAQ
Frequently Asked Questions
It is a double lipid bilayer, consisting of an outer and an inner nuclear membrane.
Through nuclear pore complexes (NPCs), which are large protein channels embedded in the membrane that allow selective transport.
It breaks down (disassembles) during prophase to allow spindle fibers access to chromosomes and reforms around the separated chromosomes in telophase.
In most contexts, yes. Some experts use 'envelope' to describe the entire structure (double membrane + pores + nuclear lamina), while 'membrane' refers more specifically to the lipid bilayers.