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Mutate Meaning in English

word

ˈmjuˌteɪt
MYOO-tayt
mjuːtˈeɪt
myoot-AYT

Definition

To change or cause to change in form or nature, especially through a genetic change.

Usage & Nuances

Mainly used in biology and genetics. Common collocates: 'mutate into', 'mutate rapidly'. Not used for ordinary non-biological changes; 'transform' or 'change' is preferred in those cases.

Example Sentences

Some viruses can mutate quickly to survive.

basic

Genes can mutate over time.

basic

The bacteria began to mutate in the new environment.

basic

If the virus keeps spreading, it could mutate into something more dangerous.

natural

Scientists watch how organisms mutate to understand evolution.

natural

Nobody expected the disease to mutate so rapidly last year.

natural