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semiparasitic

Intermediate (B1)

IPA: /ˌsɛmɪˈpærəsɪtɪk/

KK: /ˌsɛmɪˈpærəsɪtɪk/

adjective
Definition

Referring to a type of plant that can make its own food through photosynthesis but also gets some nutrients from other plants.


Example

The semiparasitic plant thrives by using sunlight for energy while still drawing some nutrients from its host.


Conversation
Sloth A
Have you heard about semiparasitic plants?
Sloth B
Yeah, I think they can photosynthesize but still get nutrients from other plants.
Sloth A
Exactly! It's fascinating how they can survive that way.
Sloth B
I know, right? Nature has some really cool adaptations.

Synonyms & Antonyms
Synonyms
partially
dependent
subordinate
Antonyms
independent
autonomous
self-sufficient
Root Explanation

Semiparasitic → It is formed from "semi-" (meaning half) and "parasitic" (from Greek "parasitos", meaning one who eats at another's table). The word "semiparasitic" refers to an organism that partially relies on another for nourishment, hence, half-parasitic.

Memory Tip

Think of 'semi-' meaning half and 'parasitic' referring to something that feeds off another. This helps you remember that 'semiparasitic' describes an organism that partially depends on another for sustenance.

Visually Confused Words
hemiparasitic
imparasitic
biparasitic
parasitic
superparasitic
microparasitic
hemiparasitism
separatistic
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