dna

dna — noun

1. The long molecule found inside every living cell that stores the complete biolog

1.名詞B1
釋義

The long molecule found inside every living cell that stores the complete biological instructions for how an organism grows, functions, and reproduces. This information is carried in sections called genes, which are passed from biological parents to their offspring.

例句

Soraya took a DNA test to learn more about her family history.

collocation: take a DNA test

Scientists extracted DNA from the ancient bone to identify the species.

collocation: extract DNA from

同義詞
  • genetic material

    a broader, less precise term that includes both DNA and RNA

  • genome

    refers specifically to the complete set of genetic material in an organism, not the molecule itself

  • hereditary material

    used mostly in formal biology texts; less common in everyday language

文法句型

DNA + noun (DNA test, DNA evidence)

extract / analyse / contain + DNA

possessive + DNA (someone's DNA)

用法筆記

Uncountable in most contexts — do not pair with 'a' or use a plural form for the general substance. The countable form ('different DNAs') is limited to technical discussions comparing distinct DNA molecules. The full chemical name 'deoxyribonucleic acid' is rarely used outside formal scientific writing; 'DNA' is standard in both everyday and professional contexts. In forensic contexts, terms like 'DNA evidence' or 'DNA sample' are more precise than using the molecule name 'DNA' alone.

常見錯誤

❌He has a strong DNA for music.
✅He has a natural talent for music.
💡'DNA' is not used as a countable metaphor for innate ability in standard English.
❌DNA are made of genes.
✅DNA is made of genes.
💡'DNA' takes a singular verb, even when referring to the concept generally.