Definitions
- Referring to the study of genes and heredity. - Talking about traits or characteristics that are determined by an individual's DNA. - Describing the biological makeup of an organism.
- Referring to the passing of traits or characteristics from one generation to another. - Talking about traits or conditions that are inherited from one's parents or ancestors. - Describing a disease or condition that is caused by genetic factors.
List of Similarities
- 1Both words relate to genetics and inheritance.
- 2Both words describe traits or characteristics that are passed down from one generation to another.
- 3Both words are used in the context of biology and medical science.
What is the difference?
- 1Usage: Genetic is more commonly used in scientific contexts, while hereditary is more commonly used in everyday language.
- 2Focus: Genetic focuses on the study of genes and DNA, while hereditary focuses on the passing down of traits and characteristics.
- 3Scope: Genetic can refer to any aspect of an organism's biological makeup, while hereditary specifically refers to traits that are passed down through generations.
- 4Connotation: Genetic is neutral in connotation, while hereditary can have negative connotations when referring to inherited diseases or conditions.
Remember this!
While both genetic and hereditary relate to genetics and inheritance, they have different focuses and scopes. Genetic is more commonly used in scientific contexts and refers to the study of genes and DNA, while hereditary is more commonly used in everyday language and refers specifically to the passing down of traits and characteristics from one generation to another.
