allelopathy
/ˌæl.ɪˈlɒp.ə.θi/ IELTSAcademic
noun
The way one plant affects another by releasing natural chemicals into the soil or air. These chemicals can help or harm nearby plants.
- Allelopathy can stop weeds from growing.
- Some trees use allelopathy to reduce competition.
- Scientists study allelopathy in crop fields.
Adinary Nuance
Allelopathy is more specific than 'competition' or 'chemical effect.' Use it when one plant changes another plant's growth by releasing chemicals. It is not the same as simple shading, crowding, or taking water from the soil. Scientists use it most often in botany and agriculture.
In other languages
- Vietnamese
- tính đối kháng hóa học
- Spanish
- alelopatía
- Chinese
- 化感作用
- Japanese
- アレロパシー
- Korean
- 타감작용
Etymology
Allelopathy comes from Greek roots meaning 'mutual' and 'suffering.' The term was used in modern science in the 20th century for plant chemical effects.
Common phrases
allelopathy in plantsallelopathic chemicalsallelopathic effect
Synonyms
Related words
Frequently asked questions
- Is allelopathy a common word in everyday English?
- No, it is mainly used in science, farming, and academic writing.
- Is allelopathy the same as competition between plants?
- Not exactly. Competition is broader, while allelopathy means chemical effects from one plant.
- Can I use allelopathy in IELTS Academic writing?
- Yes, if you are writing about plants, farming, or environmental science.