recessivo

recessive

adjective reh-chehs-SEE-voh Rare

Origin: From Latin recessus (withdrawal), related to recedere (to recede).

Usage Note

Recessivo is used in genetics (gene recessivo = recessive gene) and in economics (fase recessiva = recessionary phase). It is a false friend for English speakers only in register: both languages use it in technical contexts with the same meaning. The feminine is recessiva; plurals recessivi / recessive.

Examples

"Il gene recessivo si manifesta raramente."

Natural Translation

The recessive gene manifests rarely.

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