frameshift
Upper-Intermediate (B2)
IPA: /ˈfreɪmʃɪft/
KK: /freɪmʃɪft/
adjective
Definition
Relating to a type of mutation that alters the way genetic information is read, often by adding or removing nucleotides in a way that disrupts the normal grouping of codons.
Example
The frameshift mutation caused a significant change in the protein produced by the gene.
Conversation
Did you hear about the frameshift mutation in that new study?
Yeah, it's fascinating how it changes genetic coding!
I never knew such small changes could have such big effects.
Right? It's a reminder of how complex biology really is.
Synonyms & Antonyms
Synonyms
mutative
genetic
altering
Antonyms
stable
unchanged
consistent
noun
Definition
A type of genetic mutation that occurs when the number of nucleotides inserted or deleted from a DNA sequence is not a multiple of three, causing a shift in the reading frame of the genetic code.
Example
The frameshift in the DNA sequence led to a significant change in the protein produced.
Conversation
Did you hear about that frameshift mutation in the study?
Yeah, it sounds pretty wild how it changes everything.
Right? I never knew how much impact a single mutation can have.
Root Explanation
Frameshift → It is formed from "frame" (from Old English *framian*, meaning to construct or build) and "shift" (from Old English *sciftan*, meaning to move or change). The word "frameshift" refers to a change in the reading frame of genetic code, altering how the sequence is interpreted.
Memory Tip
Think of 'constructing' something ('frame') and then 'changing' it ('shift') — that's how a frameshift alters the way genetic information is read.
Visually Confused Words
foreshift
reshift