polyvalence Definition
- 1the state of having multiple functions or purposes
- 2the ability of a molecule or substance to bind with multiple receptors or perform multiple biological functions
Using polyvalence: Examples
Take a moment to familiarize yourself with how "polyvalence" can be used in various situations through the following examples!
Example
The polyvalence of this tool makes it useful for a variety of tasks.
Example
The polyvalence of the drug makes it effective against multiple diseases.
Example
The polyvalence of his skills made him a valuable asset to the company.
polyvalence Synonyms and Antonyms
Synonyms for polyvalence
- versatility
- adaptability
- multifunctionality
- multipurposefulness
Phrases with polyvalence
a vaccine that is designed to protect against multiple strains of a virus or multiple diseases
Example
The flu vaccine is a polyvalent vaccine that protects against several strains of the influenza virus.
an ion that can form multiple chemical bonds with other ions or molecules
Example
The polyvalent ion calcium is an important component of many biological processes.
a metal that can form multiple types of chemical bonds with other elements
Example
Copper is a polyvalent metal that is used in a wide variety of applications.
Origins of polyvalence
from French 'polyvalence', from 'poly-' meaning 'many' and 'valence' meaning 'capacity for combining with other atoms'
Summary: polyvalence in Brief
Polyvalence [pol-ee-vey-luh ns] refers to the state of having multiple functions or purposes. It can describe the versatility of a tool or the ability of a molecule to bind with multiple receptors. Examples include 'The polyvalence of this tool makes it useful for a variety of tasks.' and 'The polyvalence of his skills made him a valuable asset to the company.' Polyvalence extends into phrases like 'polyvalent vaccine,' which protects against multiple strains of a virus, and 'polyvalent ion,' which can form multiple chemical bonds.