catabolize

Thân thiện

The body must catabolize stored fat for energy during fasting.

Definition

1. Verb:
   • To subject to catabolism: This is the primary and specific meaning of "catabolize." It refers to the biological process within a living organism where complex molecules are broken down into simpler ones, typically releasing energy. This is the opposite of anabolism, which is the building-up process.

Usage

The verb "catabolize" is used in scientific contexts, particularly in biology, biochemistry, and medicine. It describes the metabolic breakdown of substances. - It is a transitive verb, meaning it requires a direct object (the substance being broken down). - It is often used in the passive voice in scientific descriptions.

Examples

• Active Voice:

  • During exercise, the body will catabolize stored fats for energy.
  • These enzymes help catabolize complex carbohydrates into simple sugars.

• Passive Voice:

  • Amino acids can be catabolized to produce urea.
  • In that metabolic state, muscle protein is being catabolized.

Advanced Usage

• "Catabolize" vs. "Metabolize": While "metabolize" is a broader term encompassing all chemical processes (both building up and breaking down), "catabolize" refers specifically to the destructive, energy-releasing phase of metabolism.
  • The liver metabolizes many drugs, first catabolizing them into inactive compounds.

Variants and Related Words

• Catabolism (n): The metabolic process of breaking down complex molecules. (e.g., )
• Catabolic (adj): Relating to or promoting catabolism. (e.g., )
• Catabolite (n): A substance produced by catabolism. (e.g., )

Synonyms

• Break down: A more general, non-technical synonym.
• Degrade: Often used in biochemical contexts.
• Dismantle: Used metaphorically in some scientific descriptions.

Antonyms

• Anabolize: To build up complex molecules from simpler ones.
• Synthesize: To combine components to form a more complex product.

Học thuật

Verb

1. subject to catabolism

Từ đồng nghĩa

• catabolise