cyclic

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "cyclic" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe something that occurs in cycles or repeats in a regular pattern, often in scientific or mathematical contexts. Example: "The process is cyclic, repeating every four years."

✓ Grammatically correct

Science

Encyclopedias

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

The production of activator CREB is stimulated by PKA (itself regulated by cyclic AMP) and the CREB, in turn, activates the genes that seem to be important for forming long-term memories.

The Economist

However, cyclic GMP is an all-purpose biochemical tool.

The Economist

Even at its most tenuous and hollowed out, he finds some shape, a sense of cyclic pattern.

The Economist

They had previously shown that completely blocking cyclic GMP stops rodents from adjusting their internal clocks to time-zone changes.

The Economist

Serotonin begets cyclic AMP, which begets protein kinase A, and so forth.

The Economist

Flip the daylight regime forward, as though the rodent is flying east, and cyclic GMP is necessary for the internal clock to adapt.

The Economist

This happens because the drug inhibits an enzyme called phosphodiesterase that would otherwise mop up a chemical called cyclic GMP.

The Economist

Given that cyclic GMP helps shift the body's circadian clock, it seemed reasonable to Dr Golombek to ask whether manipulating the level of that chemical might change the rate at which the shift can happen.

The Economist

Hence the current enthusiasm for a molecule called cyclic AMP response element binding protein, more easily remembered as CREB.

The Economist

Porphyrins have complex cyclic structures.

Encyclopedia Britannica

The activity of hair follicles is cyclic.

Encyclopedia Britannica

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When describing processes in scientific writing, use "cyclic" to clearly indicate a repeating pattern or cycle. For instance, "the cyclic nature of the Krebs cycle" accurately conveys its continuous, regenerative process.

Common error

Avoid using "cyclic" and "circular" interchangeably. "Circular" describes shape, while "cyclic" describes a repeating process or pattern over time. Misusing them can lead to ambiguity, especially in technical contexts.

Linguistic Context

The term "cyclic" primarily functions as an adjective, modifying nouns to indicate that they are characterized by cycles, repetition, or a closed-loop structure. Ludwig AI confirms its correct and frequent usage across various domains.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

Science

40%

Encyclopedias

25%

News & Media

15%

Less common in

Formal & Business

10%

Reference

5%

Wiki

5%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "cyclic" functions as an adjective to describe phenomena characterized by cycles, recurrence, or closed-loop structures. Ludwig AI analysis highlights its correct and frequent usage, particularly in scientific and technical contexts. While related to terms like "cyclical" and "periodic", "cyclic" specifically implies a repeating, closed sequence. Understanding its nuances ensures precise and effective communication, particularly in scientific and academic writing. As such, being aware of its formal and scientific register can make your writing more effective.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

cyclical

Highlights the presence of cycles.

periodic

Emphasizes recurrence at regular intervals.

recurring

Focuses on the repetition of an event or process.

recurrent

Formal term indicating something that occurs repeatedly.

repeating

Simple and direct term for something that happens again.

oscillating

Suggests movement back and forth in a regular rhythm.

rhythmic

Implies a patterned and regular sequence.

iterative

Highlights a process that involves repeated steps or procedures.

circular

Describes something having the form of a circle or cycle.

seasonal

Indicates a pattern tied to the seasons of the year.

FAQs

How is "cyclic" used in science?

In scientific contexts, "cyclic" describes processes or structures that repeat in a cycle. For example, the Krebs cycle in biochemistry is a "cyclic" pathway.

What's the difference between "cyclic" and "cyclical"?

While often used interchangeably, "cyclic" typically refers to something forming a closed loop or cycle (like a chemical structure), whereas "cyclical" more broadly describes something that happens in cycles or at regular intervals.

When should I use "periodic" instead of "cyclic"?

Use "periodic" when you want to emphasize that something occurs at regular intervals. "Cyclic" is more appropriate when referring to a process or structure that completes a full cycle or loop.

Can "cyclic" describe abstract concepts?

Yes, "cyclic" can describe abstract concepts that exhibit a repeating pattern or sequence, such as "cyclic" trends in economic data or market behavior.