symbiosis
sim-bee-OH-sis
/ˌsɪm.baɪˈoʊ.sɪs/
A mutually beneficial relationship between different people, groups, or organisms.
Symbiosis implies an incredibly close, interdependent relationship where the survival or success of each party is deeply tied to the other.
The story behind the word. Coined in 1879 by German mycologist Heinrich Anton de Bary, 'symbiosis' literally means 'living together' in Greek. He used it to describe the mutually beneficial relationship between fungi and algae in lichens, which had previously puzzled scientists.
Word relationships
- mutualism: Mutualism is a specific type of symbiosis where both organisms benefit, whereas symbiosis can technically include parasitic relationships.
- interdependence: Interdependence is a general state of relying on each other, while symbiosis is a highly specific, structural relationship.
- parasitism: Parasitism is a relationship where one organism benefits at the direct expense and harm of the other.
- independence: Independence is a state of complete self-sufficiency, requiring no external relationships.
Commonly confused with
- synthesis: Synthesis is the combination of ideas or elements to form something new, while symbiosis is a relationship between living entities.
Word family
- symbiotic (adjective): Involving interaction between two different organisms living in close physical association.
- symbiotically (adverb): In a way that involves a mutually beneficial relationship.
Collocations
- biological symbiosis
- perfect symbiosis
- industrial symbiosis
- mutual symbiosis
Example sentences
- "The relationship between the coral polyp and the algae is a classic example of biological symbiosis." A description of coral reefs.
- "There is a perfect symbiosis between the writer and the illustrator; neither could produce the comic book alone." A business partnership.
Memory hook
'Sym' (together) + 'bio' (life). Two living things sharing their lives so closely that they cannot survive easily without each other. Shared life, shared survival.
When not to use
Do not use symbiosis for casual business partnerships where either party could easily walk away without significant damage.
Fun facts
- Human beings are walking examples of symbiosis; trillions of microbes live in our guts, helping us digest food and regulate our immune systems.
Related words
Explore more words
symbiotic, parasite, coexistence, interdependent, reciprocity
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