polynucleotide: meaning, definition, pronunciation and examples
C2Technical/Scientific
Quick answer
What does “polynucleotide” mean?
A linear polymer composed of multiple nucleotide units linked together, forming the structural basis of nucleic acids like DNA and RNA.
Audio
Pronunciation
Definition
Meaning and Definition
A linear polymer composed of multiple nucleotide units linked together, forming the structural basis of nucleic acids like DNA and RNA.
In biochemistry and molecular biology, any chain of nucleotides, whether natural (as in genetic material) or synthetic (as in laboratory-created oligonucleotides). The term emphasizes the polymeric nature and chemical structure rather than biological function.
Dialectal Variation
British vs American Usage
Differences
No significant differences in meaning or usage. Spelling is identical. Pronunciation differences follow general UK/US patterns for the component parts.
Connotations
Identical technical connotations in both varieties.
Frequency
Equally low-frequency and specialized in both UK and US English, confined to scientific literature and discourse.
Grammar
How to Use “polynucleotide” in a Sentence
[polynucleotide] + [verb: forms, consists of, encodes][adjective] + [polynucleotide][enzyme] + [acts on/ligates/cleaves] + [polynucleotide]Vocabulary
Collocations
Examples
Examples of “polynucleotide” in a Sentence
verb
British English
- The enzyme will polynucleotide-ligate the fragments.
- Researchers aim to polynucleotide-synthesise the target sequence.
American English
- The enzyme will polynucleotide-ligate the fragments.
- Researchers aim to polynucleotide-synthesize the target sequence.
adverb
British English
- The strands bonded polynucleotidically.
- The synthesis proceeded polynucleotide-by-polynucleotide.
American English
- The strands bonded polynucleotidically.
- The synthesis proceeded polynucleotide-by-polynucleotide.
adjective
British English
- The polynucleotide composition was analysed.
- They studied polynucleotide hybridisation kinetics.
American English
- The polynucleotide composition was analyzed.
- They studied polynucleotide hybridization kinetics.
Usage
Meaning in Context
Business
Virtually never used, except potentially in highly specialized biotech or pharmaceutical investment reports.
Academic
Core term in biochemistry, molecular biology, and genetics papers, textbooks, and lectures.
Everyday
Extremely rare. Would not be understood by the general public without a scientific background.
Technical
The primary domain of use. Essential vocabulary in laboratory protocols, research articles, and technical specifications involving DNA/RNA.
Vocabulary
Synonyms of “polynucleotide”
Strong
Neutral
Weak
Vocabulary
Antonyms of “polynucleotide”
Watch out
Common Mistakes When Using “polynucleotide”
- Misspelling as 'polynucleotid' (missing 'e').
- Incorrect plural: 'polynucleotides' is correct; 'polynuclei' or 'polynucleotids' are wrong.
- Confusing it with 'polynuclear' (referring to multiple nuclei in cells or chemistry).
- Using it as a synonym for 'DNA' in all contexts (DNA is a specific type of polynucleotide).
FAQ
Frequently Asked Questions
No. DNA (deoxyribonucleic acid) is a specific, well-known type of polynucleotide with a deoxyribose sugar and specific functions. 'Polynucleotide' is the broader chemical term for any chain of nucleotides, which includes DNA, RNA, and synthetic versions.
Both are chains of nucleotides. 'Oligonucleotide' typically refers to a shorter, synthetic chain (often less than 100 nucleotides), used as primers or probes in the lab. 'Polynucleotide' is a more general term for longer chains, including natural genomic DNA and RNA.
Yes, though less common. It can function attributively (e.g., 'polynucleotide sequence', 'polynucleotide synthesis'). The dedicated adjective is 'polynucleotidic', but it is rare.
It is fundamental in molecular biology, biochemistry, genetics, and biotechnology. It is used when discussing the structure, synthesis, modification, or analysis of nucleic acids.
A linear polymer composed of multiple nucleotide units linked together, forming the structural basis of nucleic acids like DNA and RNA.
Polynucleotide is usually technical/scientific in register.
Polynucleotide: in British English it is pronounced /ˌpɒl.iˈnjuː.kli.ə.taɪd/, and in American English it is pronounced /ˌpɑː.liˈnuː.kli.ə.taɪd/. Tap the audio buttons above to hear it.
Phrases
Idioms & Phrases
- “None. The term is strictly technical and does not feature in idiomatic expressions.”
Learning
Memory Aids
Mnemonic
Think of a POLYmer made of many (POLY) NUCLEOtides. Like a necklace (polymer) where each bead is a nucleotide.
Conceptual Metaphor
A CHAIN or NECKLACE (where nucleotides are the links or beads). A SEQUENCE or STRING of LETTERS (where nucleotides are the alphabetic units A, T, C, G).
Practice
Quiz
What is the best definition of a polynucleotide?