The word “Mutation” is a noun that frequently appears in IELTS Reading passages, particularly in topics related to biology, genetics, and healthcare. It refers to a permanent alteration in the DNA sequence of an organism. This change can be as small as a single base pair or as large as a whole chromosome. Understanding “mutation” is crucial for comprehending complex scientific concepts often discussed in the IELTS exam.
Here are some synonyms for “mutation”:
- Alteration: (noun) /ˌɔːl.təˈreɪ.ʃən/ – A change or modification.
- Example: The scientists discovered a genetic alteration that might be responsible for the disease.
- Variation: (noun) /ˌveə.riˈeɪ.ʃən/ – A difference in form or structure.
- Example: Genetic variations can make individuals more susceptible to certain illnesses.
- Modification: (noun) /ˌmɒd.ɪ.fɪˈkeɪ.ʃən/ – The act of making something different.
- Example: A modification in the gene led to the development of antibiotic resistance.
And an antonym:
- Stability: (noun) /stəˈbɪl.ə.ti/ – The state of being unchanging or constant.
- Example: Genetic stability is crucial for the healthy functioning of an organism.
Deconstructing “Mutation”
Let’s break down “mutation” further:
- Pronunciation: /mjuːˈteɪ.ʃən/
- Part of Speech: Noun
- Different forms: “Mutate” (verb) /mjuːˈteɪt/, “Mutant” (adjective) /ˈmjuː.tənt/
- Common Collocations: Genetic mutation, DNA mutation, beneficial mutation, harmful mutation, random mutation.
“Mutation” in the IELTS Exam
“Mutation” is most likely to appear in the IELTS Reading and Listening sections, particularly in passages or lectures about:
- Genetics and Heredity: Discussing how mutations contribute to genetic diversity and inherited diseases.
- Evolutionary Biology: Explaining how mutations can lead to the development of new traits and species.
- Medicine and Healthcare: Describing how mutations can cause diseases like cancer and how they can be targeted for treatment.
Applying “Mutation” in Your IELTS Responses
IELTS Reading Example:
“A recent study has shown that a specific mutation in a particular gene increases the risk of developing heart disease.”
Analysis: Here, “mutation” is used to describe a specific change within a gene that directly impacts health, highlighting a common theme in genetics-related IELTS passages.
IELTS Listening Example:
“So, in essence, this mutation disrupts the normal function of the protein, leading to the symptoms we see in patients with cystic fibrosis.”
Analysis: This example demonstrates how “mutation” might be used in a lecture to explain the root cause of a genetic disorder, a common topic in IELTS Listening.
Mastering “Mutation” Collocations
- Genetic predisposition to: A genetic mutation that makes someone more likely to develop a certain disease.
- Example: Some people have a genetic predisposition to obesity due to mutations that affect their metabolism.
- Inherited mutation: A mutation passed down from parents to offspring.
- Example: The child inherited the inherited mutation for cystic fibrosis from their carrier parents.
- Spontaneous mutation: A mutation that occurs randomly without a known cause.
- Example: Cancer can be caused by spontaneous mutations in cells that accumulate over time.
Idioms and Phrases Related to “Mutation”
While there aren’t any idioms that directly use the word “mutation,” you can use phrases to describe the concept:
- A change in the genetic code: This phrase is a more accessible way to explain “mutation” to someone unfamiliar with the term.
- Example: Scientists believe that exposure to radiation can cause a change in the genetic code, potentially leading to cancer.
- A glitch in the system: This phrase can be used metaphorically to describe a mutation that disrupts the normal functioning of a biological process.
- Example: The disease is caused by a glitch in the system that prevents cells from repairing their DNA properly.
Conclusion
Understanding “mutation” is essential for navigating the complex topics of genetics, evolution, and health that frequently appear in the IELTS exam. By incorporating this word and its related terms into your vocabulary, you can demonstrate a strong command of scientific language and improve your chances of achieving a high score. Keep practicing, and remember to pay attention to how “mutation” is used in context to develop your understanding further.