to mutate
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to mutate
To change genetically; to undergo a mutation. This often applies to viruses or cells whose genetic information changes spontaneously or due to external influences.
Das Virus ist mutiert und nun resistenter gegen die bisherigen Medikamente.
The virus has mutated and is now more resistant to the previous medications.
The verb 'mutieren' (to mutate) comes from the Latin word 'mutare', which means 'ändern' (to change) or 'verwandeln' (to transform). This basic meaning of changing is found in all uses of the word.
Die Hauptfigur im Film mutiert bei Vollmond zu einem Werwolf.
The main character in the film turns into a werewolf at full moon.
You can recognize the meaning from the subject and context: if it involves viruses or cells, the biological mutation is meant. If the subject is a person whose behavior changes, it is the figurative meaning. If it is about a boy's voice, it refers to voice change.
Forscher beobachten, wie das Grippevirus mutiert.
Researchers are observing how the flu virus mutates.
In the figurative meaning 'sich verwandeln' (to transform), 'mutieren' is always used with the preposition 'zu' and the dative. This structure indicates what or who someone or something develops into.
Die kleine Party mutierte schnell zu einer riesigen Feier.
The small party quickly turned into a huge celebration.
The meaning 'den Stimmbruch durchmachen' (to go through voice change) is a technical usage from biology or medicine. In everyday language, this change is usually described differently.
Der Arzt erklärte, dass es normal ist, wenn Jungen in der Pubertät mutieren.
The doctor explained that it is normal for boys' voices to change during puberty.
to transform
'verwandeln' and 'mutieren' both describe a change into something else. 'verwandeln' is the more general word and fits many situations, including visible or figurative changes. 'mutieren' is more precise when it is about a genetic change, for example in viruses or cells. Figuratively, 'mutieren zu' can also mean that something develops into something else in a surprising, often negative, way. The words can be confused because 'mutieren' is sometimes used like 'sich verwandeln'. In everyday situations, 'verwandeln' is usually more natural; 'mutieren' sounds more specialized or stronger.
Das Virus kann mutieren und dadurch neue Eigenschaften bekommen.
The virus can mutate and thereby acquire new characteristics.
Im Frühling verwandelt sich der graue Park in eine grüne Landschaft.
In spring, the gray park transforms into a green landscape.