cross-fertilize

USAGE SUMMARY

'cross-fertilize' is a correct and usable word in written English.
It refers to the process of combining ideas, methods, or practices from different sources to create something new or improved. An example of using 'cross-fertilize' in a sentence could be: "The conference provided a great opportunity for professionals from various industries to cross-fertilize their knowledge and come up with innovative solutions."

✓ Grammatically correct

Science

News & Media

Encyclopedias

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

38 human-written examples

Although some species are known to self-fertilize if no partners are present, most shallow-water species cross-fertilize, by means of internal fertilization.

Encyclopedia Britannica

Evolutionary transitions from outcrossing, where individuals mate and cross-fertilize each other, to self-fertilization (henceforth, selfing) are in part responsible for the great diversity of animal and plant reproduction systems [ 1- 6].

BMC Biology

They cross-fertilize each other.

The New York Times

Some works imaginatively cross-fertilize aesthetic approaches.

The New York Times - Arts

They don't have seeds, and they can't cross-fertilize.

The New Yorker

At least two varieties that cross-fertilize successfully must be planted in association with each other.

Encyclopedia Britannica

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

22 human-written examples

Δfact-lgam males cross-fertilized with fertile Δp48/45 females showed no change in ookinete numbers formed when compared with pure mutant cultures.

Cellular Microbiology

It should be noticed that although V. vinifera, V. riparia, V. rupestris and V. berlandieri are generally classified as 4 different species, they are all able to cross fertilize and to produce fertile progenies; therefore, they are strongly related and should be considered as the same biological species.

BMC Plant Biology

Music, too, is cross-fertilizing.

The New York Times

Eventually he returned to his roots, cross-fertilizing both New England and west Texas.

The New York Times

In "Nature's Army," an innovative but sometimes overwrought book, Harvey Meyerson cross-fertilizes the stories of conquest and preservation.

The New York Times - Books

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "cross-fertilize" in a metaphorical sense, ensure the context clearly indicates the combination of distinct elements or ideas.

Common error

Avoid using "cross-fertilize" to describe processes within a single, homogenous entity. The term implies interaction between separate sources.

Linguistic Context

The primary grammatical function of "cross-fertilize" is as a verb, indicating an action of combining or influencing. Ludwig shows examples from diverse fields, affirming its broad applicability. It's often used transitively, requiring a direct object.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

Science

35%

News & Media

32%

Encyclopedias

14%

Less common in

Formal & Business

7%

Wiki

6%

Science

6%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "cross-fertilize" is a grammatically correct and frequently used verb that describes the combination of distinct elements to create something new. As indicated by Ludwig, it is applicable in both literal biological contexts and figurative contexts involving ideas or methods. The term maintains a neutral to formal tone, making it suitable for diverse writing scenarios. Remember to use it when referring to the interaction between separate sources and leverage its power to convey the synergy of combined efforts.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

cross-pollinate

Similar meaning but relates specifically to plant reproduction rather than broader concepts.

hybridize

Highlights the creation of a hybrid by combining different elements.

interbreed

Focuses specifically on the biological aspect of breeding between different varieties or species.

synergize

Implies a combined effort that produces a greater effect than individual efforts.

intermix

Highlights the blending of different elements, often in a more general or abstract context.

integrate

Highlights the combination of elements into a functional whole.

exchange ideas

Emphasizes the sharing of thoughts and concepts between individuals or groups.

blend together

Focuses on the merging of distinct components to form a unified whole.

fuse together

Implies a strong, inseparable union of different elements.

mingle

Suggests a casual interaction and mixing of different elements.

FAQs

How can "cross-fertilize" be used in a sentence?

You can say, "The different departments need to "cross-fertilize" their ideas to come up with a better strategy."

What does "cross-fertilize" mean?

The term "cross-fertilize" refers to the process of combining distinct ideas, methods, or practices from different sources, leading to new or improved outcomes.

What is a synonym for "cross-fertilize"?

A synonym for "cross-fertilize" is "cross-pollinate", though the latter is more specific to plants. Other options include "hybridize" or "integrate" depending on the context.

Is it appropriate to use "cross-fertilize" in formal writing?

Yes, "cross-fertilize" is suitable for formal writing, particularly in scientific, academic, and business contexts where the exchange and integration of ideas are discussed. You might also consider using "synergize" in formal setting.