methylating
Upper-Intermediate (B2)
IPA: /ˈmɛθəˌleɪtɪŋ/
KK: /ˈmɛθəˌleɪtɪŋ/
adjective
Definition
Relating to the process of adding a methyl group to a molecule, often affecting its chemical properties or biological activity.
Example
The methylating agent is used in various chemical reactions to modify compounds.
Conversation
I read an article about a new technique in genetics today.
Oh really? What was it about?
It was focused on methylating DNA to improve gene expression.
That sounds fascinating! I’d love to learn more about how it works.
Synonyms & Antonyms
Synonyms
methylated
alkylating
modifying
Antonyms
demethylating
unmethylated
deactivating
verb
Definition
To add a methyl group to a molecule, often affecting its chemical properties or biological activity.
Example
The researchers are methylating the compound to study its effects on gene expression.
Tense Forms
Past: methylated
Past Participle: methylated
Conversation
I was reading about how scientists are methylating DNA to study gene expression.
That's interesting! What does that actually mean for the research?
It helps them understand which genes are active and how they can be influenced.
Root Explanation
Methylating → It is formed from "methyl" (from Greek "methylen", meaning a chemical group derived from methane) and "-ating" (a suffix used to indicate a process or action). The word "methylating" refers to the process of adding a methyl group to a molecule.
Memory Tip
Think of the chemical group 'methyl' as a building block being added to something, which is what 'methylating' means — the action of adding that group.
Visually Confused Words
ethylation
demethylation