How to Say "mutation" in Spanish
The most common Spanish word for “mutation” is “mutación” — use 'mutación' when referring specifically to a biological or genetic alteration, such as in viruses or DNA..
English → Spanish
mutación
nounB2general
Use 'mutación' when referring specifically to a biological or genetic alteration, such as in viruses or DNA.
Examples
La mutación del virus preocupa a los médicos.
The mutation of the virus worries doctors.
variación
nounB2general
Use 'variación' for genetic changes in a broader biological context, or when referring to different versions or interpretations, like in music or statistical data.
Examples
Escuchamos las variaciones de Beethoven sobre un tema de Mozart.
We listened to Beethoven's variations on a theme by Mozart.
Choosing Between 'Mutación' and 'Variación'
Learners often mistakenly use 'variación' for biological mutations. Remember that 'mutación' is the precise term for genetic changes in organisms. 'Variación' is more general and can apply to music, differences, or less specific biological shifts.
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