Reading Theme:
Dominant: Definition, Usage & Key Examples (2 meaning)
Meaning 1：having control (dominant)
dominant
/ˈdɒmɪnənt/
adj.
Being the most important or powerful person or thing in a situation, so that others are controlled by it.
having control
➕
/ˈhævɪŋ kənˈtroʊl/
adj.
Describes someone or something that exerts the most power, influence, or authority in a given context, often determining outcomes.
📘 Details & Usage
📖 Root Explanation
From Latin *dominans*, present participle of *dominari* (to rule), from *dominus* (lord, master).
💡 Mnemonic
Think of a DOMInating ANT queen controlling her colony.
📖 Example
As the team captain, her dominant leadership style ensured everyone was focused and motivated.
In her role as team captain, her controlling and commanding approach to leadership kept all members attentive and driven.
🔗 Collocations
dominant position – a leading or controlling situation
dominant force – the most powerful or influential factor
dominant player – the most important or powerful participant in a field
🔄 Synonyms
commanding (adj.) – having a position of authority or control.
paramount (adj.) – more important than anything else; supreme.
supreme (adj.) – highest in rank or authority.
🚫 Antonyms
subordinate (adj.) – lower in rank or position.
weak (adj.) – lacking power or influence.
minor (adj.) – lesser in importance, size, or extent.
🌱 Derivatives
dominance (n.) – the state of being dominant; power and influence over others.
dominate (v.) – to have a commanding influence over; to be the most important feature.
domination (n.) – the exercise of control or power over someone or something.
📖 Cultural Story
The word stems from Latin *dominus* (master of a household), reflecting social hierarchy. In modern usage, it is a key term in genetics (dominant/recessive traits), business (market dominance), and sociology (describing power structures).
Meaning 2：most prominent (dominant)
dominant
/ˈdɒmɪnənt/
adj.
Being the most noticeable or important characteristic or trait among others.
most prominent
➕
/moʊst ˈprɑːmɪnənt/
adj.
Describes a feature, gene, or characteristic that is most noticeable, prevalent, or influential compared to others.
📘 Details & Usage
📖 Example
Bright blue eyes are a dominant trait in his family, often passed down through generations.
The striking feature of bright blue eyes is a highly prevalent and inherited characteristic within his family lineage.
🔗 Collocations
dominant trait – a genetic characteristic that is expressed over a recessive one
dominant feature – the most noticeable or important aspect
dominant color – the most prevalent or striking hue in a design
🔄 Synonyms
predominant (adj.) – present as the strongest or main element.
foremost (adj.) – most prominent in rank, importance, or position.
prevalent (adj.) – widespread in a particular area or at a particular time.
🚫 Antonyms
recessive (adj.) – (genetics) relating to a gene whose effect is masked by a dominant allele.
subsidiary (adj.) – less important than but related or supplementary to something.
background (adj.) – forming a setting or context, not the main focus.
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