Word
RNA
Phoneticsrna
/ˌɑˌɹɛˈneɪ/
Uncountable noun
Definition
n. Stands for ribonucleic acid. A molecule in your cells that carries instructions from your DNA to help build proteins. It acts like a messenger that tells the cell how to grow and function.
n. Abbreviation for ribonucleic acid. A nucleic acid present in all living cells that acts as a messenger carrying instructions from DNA for controlling the synthesis of proteins. In some viruses, it serves as the primary carrier of genetic information.
Examples
“The vaccine uses a small piece of RNA to teach the body.”
“Scientists studied how the virus uses its own RNA to hijack the host cell's machinery and replicate itself.”
“Messenger RNA plays a critical role in gene expression by translating the genetic code stored in the nucleus into functional proteins within the cytoplasm.”
Examples
simple
“The vaccine uses a small piece of RNA to teach the body.”
contextual
“Scientists studied how the virus uses its own RNA to hijack the host cell's machinery and replicate itself.”
complex
“Messenger RNA plays a critical role in gene expression by translating the genetic code stored in the nucleus into functional proteins within the cytoplasm.”
Usage
Usually uncountable when referring to the substance; can be countable when referring to specific types (e.g., 'different RNAs').
Real-World Examples
“The researchers also used the technique to investigate recently discovered glycoRNA—RNA molecules associated with glycans that have only recently been discovered.” “RNA viruses also form double-stranded RNA when they replicate, and exposing cells to double-stranded RNA can lead to a strong immune response.” “Some jumping genes can also remove themselves from RNA with the help of an RNA enzyme.” - Exam level
- CambridgeCambridgeCambridge English QualificationsThe exam suite from Cambridge University Press & Assessment, from A1 Movers up to C2 Proficiency. The benchmark names double as CEFR labels.C1 AdvancedIELTSIELTSInternational English Language Testing SystemThe 0–9 band test co-owned by the British Council, IDP, and Cambridge. Used for university entry, work, and migration.7.0–8.0TOEFL iBTTOEFL iBTTest of English as a Foreign Language, Internet-Based TestETS's academic English test, the standard route for US university admissions. Scored 0–120, with a 1–6 scale since 2026.1–6 scale: 5.0–5.595–113TOEICTOEICTest of English for International CommunicationETS's workplace English test, big in Japan and Korea. Listening & Reading scores 10–990 and tops out at C1.945–990
- Frequency
- Frequent
- Level
- C1 · Advanced
- Updated
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