noun / verb HSK 5
Traditional 突變
mutation · sudden change · to mutate · to change suddenly
Meaning
突变 refers to a sudden, dramatic change or transformation. In biology, it specifically means 'mutation'—a change in genetic material. In general contexts, it describes any abrupt shift or unexpected transformation in state, condition, or nature.
Usage
Commonly used in scientific contexts (genetics, evolution, biology) to describe mutations. Also appears in news, literature, and everyday speech to describe sudden changes in situations, weather, or circumstances. Often carries a sense of unpredictability or dramatic shift.
Examples
- 01这种病毒容易发生突变，所以很难研制疫苗。, .This virus easily undergoes mutation, so it's very difficult to develop a vaccine.
- 02天气突变，原本晴朗的天空突然下起了大雨。, .The weather changed suddenly; the originally clear sky suddenly started pouring rain.
Characters
Measure words
- 次一次突变
- 种一种突变
Common collocations
- 基因突变genetic mutation
- 发生突变to undergo mutation
- 突变体mutant
- 突变率mutation rate
Antonyms
Origin
Combines 突 (sudden/abrupt) with 变 (change), literally meaning 'sudden change.' The term gained prominence in modern Chinese through translation of scientific terminology, particularly in genetics and evolutionary biology.