Meaning and Usage
"显性" (xiǎnxìng) literally means "manifest" or "explicit." It is often used in scientific contexts, especially genetics, to describe traits or genes that are clearly expressed when present. Beyond biology, it can describe any characteristic or behavior that is obvious and easily observed.
Common Collocations
- 显性基因 (dominant gene): used in genetics to indicate a gene that expresses itself even if only one copy is present.
- 显性特征 (explicit trait): refers to clear, observable features or characteristics.
- 显性行为 (explicit behavior): in psychology, behavior that is outwardly visible.
Usage Notes
When using "显性," speakers emphasize the clarity or obviousness of a trait or behavior. It contrasts with "隐性" (yǐnxìng), meaning "recessive" or "hidden." In everyday conversation, "显性" is less common outside technical or formal contexts but can be used metaphorically to highlight something obvious or dominant.
Avoid confusing "显性" with "明显" (míngxiǎn), which also means "obvious" but is more general and used for perceptions or facts rather than inherent traits.