die DNA
DNA
Deoxyribonucleic acid, a molecule in cells that stores and transmits the genetic information of a living organism.
EXAMPLE
Die DNA enthält die genetischen Informationen des Menschen.
DNA contains the genetic information of humans.
die DNA
DNA
die DNA
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Meanings
die DNA
DNA
Figuratively: the fundamental qualities, values, or characteristic features that shape an organization, company, or group.
EXAMPLE
Teamarbeit gehört zur DNA dieses Unternehmens.
Teamwork is part of this company's DNA.
Forms
Forms adapted from the German Wiktionary entry DNA, by Wiktionary contributors, licence CC BY-SA 4.0.
At a glance
| gender | feminine die |
|---|---|
| genitive | der DNA |
The four cases
| singular | plural | |
|---|---|---|
| nominative | die DNA | – |
| accusative | die DNA | – |
| dative | der DNA | – |
| genitive | der DNA | – |
The article changes with the case; it is shown in colour.
Usage tips
Typical collocations
In biological and medical contexts, 'DNA' frequently occurs with words such as 'die DNA-Probe' (DNA sample), 'die DNA-Spur' (DNA trace), 'der DNA-Test' (DNA test), or 'DNA analysieren' (to analyze DNA).
EXAMPLE
Die Polizei ließ die DNA im Labor analysieren.
The police had the DNA analyzed in the laboratory.
Technical context
You will encounter this meaning especially in texts about genetics, medicine, forensic science, and biological research.
EXAMPLE
Die Ärztin erklärte, dass die DNA des Virus genauer untersucht werden müsse.
The doctor explained that the virus's DNA would need to be examined more closely.
Figurative use
In its figurative meaning, 'DNA' is often used with organizations, companies, or groups. Typical patterns are 'zur DNA gehören' (to be part of an organization's DNA) and 'in der DNA einer Organisation liegen' (to lie in an organization's DNA); the context then usually mentions values, ways of working, or characteristic features.
EXAMPLE
Offene Kommunikation gehört zur DNA dieses Vereins.
Open communication is part of this association's DNA.
Nachhaltigkeit liegt tief in der DNA des Unternehmens.
Sustainability is deeply rooted in the company's DNA.
In real life
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