transgenics: meaning, definition, pronunciation and examples
LowTechnical/Formal
Quick answer
What does “transgenics” mean?
The branch of biology and biotechnology concerned with the process of introducing a gene from one organism into the genome of another.
Audio
Pronunciation
Definition
Meaning and Definition
The branch of biology and biotechnology concerned with the process of introducing a gene from one organism into the genome of another.
Also refers to the scientific techniques and resulting organisms (transgenic organisms) themselves; a field encompassing genetic engineering, molecular biology, and agricultural/medical applications.
Dialectal Variation
British vs American Usage
Differences
No significant difference in meaning. Spelling and pronunciation are consistent. The term is equally technical in both variants.
Connotations
Neutral scientific connotations in both; public discourse may associate it with debates over genetically modified (GM) food and ethical concerns.
Frequency
Equally low-frequency, specialist term in both regions.
Grammar
How to Use “transgenics” in a Sentence
The research involves [transgenics].They specialize in [transgenics].Debates about [transgenics] are ongoing.Vocabulary
Collocations
Examples
Examples of “transgenics” in a Sentence
verb
British English
- N/A (Noun only)
American English
- N/A (Noun only)
adverb
British English
- N/A (Noun only)
American English
- N/A (Noun only)
adjective
British English
- N/A (Noun only). The related adjective is 'transgenic'.
American English
- N/A (Noun only). The related adjective is 'transgenic'.
Usage
Meaning in Context
Business
Used in agribusiness, pharmaceutical R&D, and biotechnology investment reports.
Academic
Common in molecular biology, genetics, agricultural science, and bioethics papers.
Everyday
Rare; might appear in news articles about GMOs.
Technical
The primary context; precise term in laboratory protocols and scientific literature.
Vocabulary
Synonyms of “transgenics”
Neutral
Weak
Vocabulary
Antonyms of “transgenics”
Watch out
Common Mistakes When Using “transgenics”
- Using as a countable noun incorrectly (e.g., 'three transgenics' for three organisms). Confusing 'transgenics' (field/process) with 'transgenic' (adjective) or 'transgene' (the inserted gene).
FAQ
Frequently Asked Questions
Yes, it is a specific type of genetic modification involving the transfer of genes from one species to another.
In precise usage, the field is 'transgenics'; the organisms are 'transgenic organisms' or 'transgenics' (plural/countable) in very informal technical jargon.
No, it applies to all organisms, including plants, animals, and microorganisms.
Transgenics inserts genes from a different species. Cisgenics inserts genes from a sexually compatible species (same or closely related).
The branch of biology and biotechnology concerned with the process of introducing a gene from one organism into the genome of another.
Transgenics is usually technical/formal in register.
Transgenics: in British English it is pronounced /trænzˈdʒɛnɪks/, and in American English it is pronounced /trænzˈdʒɛnɪks/. Tap the audio buttons above to hear it.
Phrases
Idioms & Phrases
- “None”
Learning
Memory Aids
Mnemonic
Think: TRANSfer of GENES + ICS (as in 'physics' or 'genetics') = the science of transferring genes.
Conceptual Metaphor
GENETIC CODE AS SOFTWARE (editing the code of life).
Practice
Quiz
What is the primary focus of transgenics?