What does genetically mean?
Genetically is an adverb that describes something in relation to genes or inherited biological characteristics. It commonly modifies adjectives and verbs, as in “genetically modified” crops or “genetically inherited” traits, and it can also mean that a condition results from a genetic difference rather than an acquired injury or infection. The term is most useful in biology, medicine, agriculture, and discussions of inheritance, where it distinguishes inherited or DNA-based causes from environmental influences. It is generally formal and technical, but its meaning has become familiar through public discussion of genetically modified organisms and genetic testing. In ordinary conversation, it can be used broadly for characteristics transmitted through family lines. The word is especially useful when precision matters: genetically does not necessarily mean solely caused by genes, and it should not be confused with the adjective genetic.
adverbIn a way that relates to genes, inheritance, or genetic characteristics. It may indicate that a trait or condition results from inherited genetic differences rather than environmental or acquired causes.
- 1. In relation to genes, genetic inheritance, or the information encoded in DNA.
- 2. As a result of genetic characteristics or differences, rather than environmental or acquired influences.
"The researchers genetically engineered a strain of bacteria capable of producing the enzyme efficiently."
"The condition is genetically linked to a rare variant that is more common in certain populations."
"The two plants are genetically similar, but their flowers develop differently because of environmental conditions."
Inherited traits can be subtle: “genetically” reminds us that the story of an organism often begins with its family tree.
Reviewed by Deb Chak, Editor. AI-assisted content curated by RJS Tech Solutions LLP.
Where does genetically come from?
The adverb was formed in English by adding the suffix “-ally” to the adjective “genetic.” “Genetic” was borrowed into English through French and ultimately derives from Greek genētikos, meaning “generative” or “of birth,” which is related to genētos, “begotten,” and genesthai, “to be born.” Related forms include “gene” and “genesis,” while “generation” and “genus” descend through Latin from the same Indo-European root.
How genetically is actually used
Generally formal and technical, though widely familiar through public discussion of genetic testing, inherited traits, and genetically modified organisms. In ordinary use, it may sometimes be applied broadly to any characteristic transmitted through family lines, although the precise scientific distinction is between inherited and environmental influences.
Easily confused with genetically
Genetic is an adjective that modifies a noun, as in genetic variation, while genetically is an adverb that modifies a verb, adjective, or another adverb.