genetic engineering
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genetic engineering
A subfield of biology and biotechnology that deals with the research and targeted modification of genetic material (DNA).
Mithilfe der Gentechnik können heute bestimmte Krankheiten besser behandelt werden.
With the help of genetic engineering, certain diseases can be treated better today.
'Gentechnik' (genetic engineering) is a compound noun made up of 'das Gen' (the gene, the smallest unit of hereditary information) and 'die Technik' (technology/engineering). Literally, it describes the technology that deals with genes.
Die moderne Medizin profitiert stark von der Gentechnik.
Modern medicine benefits greatly from genetic engineering.
A very common related form is the adjective 'gentechnisch' (genetically engineered/genetic), especially in the phrase 'gentechnisch verändert' (genetically modified). The expression 'mithilfe der Gentechnik' (with the help of genetic engineering) is also often used to describe methods.
In der EU gibt es strenge Regeln für gentechnisch veränderte Lebensmittel.
In the EU, there are strict rules for genetically modified foods.
Although 'Gentechnik' (genetic engineering) is a scientific technical term, it is used very frequently in public discussions about ethics, agriculture, and medicine. So it is also relevant in everyday German.
Die Debatte über die Risiken und Chancen der Gentechnik ist sehr emotional.
The debate about the risks and opportunities of genetic engineering is very emotional.
genetics
'Gentechnik' and 'Genetik' both have to do with genes and genetic material. 'Genetik' is the science of heredity and genes: for example, it explains why children have certain traits from their parents. 'Gentechnik' is more practical and technical: it involves deliberately studying or modifying genetic material. Learners may confuse the words because both begin with 'Gen-' and occur in biological contexts. As a guide: 'Genetik' explains genes, while 'Gentechnik' modifies them or uses them in a targeted way.
In der Landwirtschaft wird Gentechnik eingesetzt, um Pflanzen widerstandsfähiger zu machen.
In agriculture, genetic engineering is used to make plants more resistant.
Im Biologieunterricht erklärt die Lehrerin die Grundlagen der Genetik.
In biology class, the teacher explains the basics of genetics.