evolution
The process by which different kinds of living organisms are thought to have developed and diversified from earlier forms during the history of the earth.
Refers to gradual change in the heritable characteristics of biological populations over successive generations, driven primarily by natural selection, genetic drift, gene flow, and mutation.
Word relationships
- development: More general, can apply to non-biological contexts or individual growth.
- adaptation: A result or mechanism of evolution, not the entire process.
- change: Too general, lacks the biological and historical context.
- stasis: A state of inactivity or equilibrium, absence of change.
- fixity: The state of being unchanging or permanent.
Word family
- evolve (verb): To develop gradually, especially from a simple to a more complex form.
- evolutionary (adjective): Relating to the process of evolution.
Collocations
- theory of evolution
- human evolution
- cultural evolution
- convergent evolution
Example sentences
- "Charles Darwin's theory of evolution by natural selection explained the diversity of life on Earth." Discussing the theory of natural selection.
- "The evolution of antibiotic resistance in bacteria is a serious public health concern." Referring to adaptation.
Memory hook
'Evolution' is how life 'EVOLVES' and changes over time. Gradual change.
When not to use
Avoid using 'evolution' for sudden, radical changes; it implies a gradual, cumulative process over long periods. Also, don't use it to imply progress towards a 'perfect' form, as evolution is not goal-oriented.
Fun facts
- The concept of evolution predates Darwin, but his theory of natural selection provided a mechanism for how it occurs.
- Evolution is not just about humans; bacteria, viruses, and plants are constantly evolving.
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