Adjective
/pjʊər ˈbriːdɪŋ/
Meaning: "Pure-breeding" refers to the process of breeding organisms, typically animals or plants, that are genetically identical for specific traits, resulting in offspring that maintain these traits predictably. The term often implies a breeding program that seeks to preserve specific characteristics without introducing new genetic material from outside sources.
Usage: The term "pure-breeding" is primarily used in the context of agriculture, horticulture, and animal husbandry, often in discussions about genetics, breeding strategies, and agricultural practices. It is more frequently encountered in written contexts such as scientific literature, textbooks, and formal reports than in oral speech.
"The farmer insisted on pure-breeding to ensure the quality of his livestock."
El agricultor insistió en la cría pura para garantizar la calidad de su ganado.
"In plant genetics, pure-breeding can produce superior crops."
En la genética vegetal, la cría pura puede producir cultivos superiores.
"Pure-breeding chickens resulted in a consistently high egg production rate."
Las gallinas de cría pura resultaron en una tasa de producción de huevos consistentemente alta.
Although "pure-breeding" is a specific term with limited idiomatic expressions directly associated with it, the concept can be applied in broader idioms related to "purity" and "breeding". Here are some expressions that incorporate similar themes:
"Blood will tell."
La sangre habla por sí misma.
Meaning: Inherited traits or behaviors will often reveal themselves, regardless of circumstances.
"Like father, like son."
De tal palo, tal astilla.
Meaning: Children often resemble or behave like their parents, reflecting genetic inheritance.
"Reap what you sow."
Cosechar lo que siembras.
Meaning: One's actions will ultimately result in consequences that reflect the efforts and decisions made.
"A chip off the old block."
Una astilla del viejo bloque.
Meaning: A person who closely resembles their parent in behavior or appearance, emphasizing the traits passed down through generations.
"Spitting image."
Imagen exacta.
Meaning: Someone who looks exactly like another person, often a parent, illustrating the clear traits inherited by offspring.
The term "pure" derives from the Old French "pur," stemming from Latin "purus," which means "clean, clear." The word "breeding" comes from the Old English "bridan," meaning "to produce young, to bring forth." Together, "pure-breeding" emphasizes the focus on producing offspring that retain original traits without variation.
Synonyms:
- Selective breeding
- Inbreeding (in some contexts)
- Line breeding
Antonyms:
- Crossbreeding
- Hybrid breeding
- Mixed breeding
In conclusion, "pure-breeding" is a significant term within the context of genetics and breeding practices, predominantly used in written contexts and scientific discussions.