PCR Test: Definition, How It Works & Examples

Meaning 1：viral genetic test (PCR Test)

PCR Test 🔊

/ˈpiː siː ɑːr tɛst/

A medical test that finds tiny amounts of a virus by making millions of copies of its genetic material, so we can see if it's there.

PCR test swab sample collection by healthcare worker in PPE

viral genetic test 🔊

➕

/ˈvaɪrəl dʒəˈnetɪk tɛst/

A diagnostic test that amplifies viral genetic material (RNA/DNA) through polymerase chain reaction to detect even minute amounts of the virus in a sample.

📁 Category：Physical & Mental Health 🔖 Level：Intermediate

📘 Details & Usage

📖 Root Explanation

PCR = Polymerase Chain Reaction. 'Polymerase' from Greek 'polymeres' + 'ase'.

💡 Mnemonic

Remember PCR as 'Pull, Copy, Repeat' – it pulls DNA, copies it many times.

📖 Example

Before my flight, the airport required me to take a PCR test. 🔊 Before my flight, the airport required me to take a PCR test.

🔗 Collocations

take a PCR test – Undergo the test to detect viral RNA.

PCR test result – The outcome indicating positive or negative.

PCR test kit – The collection of materials needed for the test.

🔄 Synonyms

molecular test (n.) – A test that detects genetic material of a pathogen.

COVID-19 test (n.) – A test specifically for the SARS-CoV-2 virus.

RT-PCR test (n.) – A real-time reverse transcription PCR test, often used for RNA viruses.

🌱 Derivatives

PCR-positive (adj.) – Having a positive result from a PCR test.

PCR-negative (adj.) – Having a negative result from a PCR test.

real-time PCR (n.) – A technique that quantifies DNA amplification as it occurs.

📖 Cultural Story

Invented by Kary Mullis in 1983, PCR won the Nobel Prize in Chemistry in 1993. It revolutionized genetic testing by amplifying DNA from tiny samples.