primary structure

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "primary structure" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it to refer to the organization or components of a building, system, or other entity. For example, "The primary structure of a house includes its foundation, walls, and roof."

✓ Grammatically correct

Science

Academia

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

Purification, primary structure, and antibacterial activity.

Nature

Primary structure of glycans isolated from human leucocyte lactotransferrin.

Nature

The primary structure of the clay-water fluid.

Stanford University

Studies on the primary structure of the small subunit of ribulose-1,5-bisphosphate carboxylase.

Nature

Birnbaum, F. & Nassal, M. Hepatitis B virus nucleocapsid assembly: primary structure requirements in the core protein.

Nature

Noda, M. et al. Primary structure of Electrophorus electricus sodium channel deduced from cDNA sequence.

Nature

Primary structure and subunit stoichiometry of F1-ATPase from bovine mitochondria.

Nature

Primary structure and functional expression of a mouse inward rectifier potassium channel.

Nature

Lindahl, T. Instability and decay of the primary structure of DNA.

Nature

The primary structure of langur (Presbytis entellus) pancreatic ribonuclease: adaptive features in digestive enzymes in mammals.

Nature

Zeolite topology is defined as the primary structure.

Catalysis Today

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When discussing the hierarchical levels of structure, especially in scientific contexts like biology or chemistry, accurately distinguish "primary structure" from secondary, tertiary, and quaternary structures. Use precise language to avoid ambiguity.

Common error

Avoid using "primary structure" interchangeably with "basic structure" in contexts where the specific structural hierarchy (primary, secondary, tertiary, quaternary) is relevant. "Primary structure" has a precise meaning within these domains, and using a general term can lead to confusion.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "primary structure" functions primarily as a noun phrase, often serving as a subject or object within a sentence. Ludwig confirms the phrase is correct and usable in written English. It is used to denote a fundamental arrangement or sequence.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

Science

42%

Academia

25%

News & Media

10%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

5%

Wiki

3%

Formal & Business

15%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "primary structure" is a versatile noun phrase frequently used across diverse fields. Ludwig AI confirms its correctness and usability, especially in scientific, academic, and general discussions. It commonly serves to identify the most basic organization or sequence in a system. Usage ranges from formal, as seen in academic papers, to more neutral tones in news articles. While "primary structure" is prevalent in scientific contexts, remember that alternative phrases like "basic framework" or "fundamental organization" can offer suitable alternatives depending on the specific context. Be mindful of maintaining accuracy when employing this phrase, especially in fields where it possesses a highly specific definition.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

basic framework

Focuses on the fundamental framework or skeletal support of something.

fundamental organization

Emphasizes the essential organizational pattern or arrangement.

initial configuration

Highlights the starting arrangement or setup of a system.

core composition

Refers to the central constituents or makeup of an entity.

essential arrangement

Stresses the indispensable order or disposition of elements.

underlying architecture

Draws attention to the structural design or plan.

foundational layout

Highlights the basic plan or design that something is built upon.

chief componentry

Concerns the main components or elements that comprise a structure.

primary constituents

Highlights the essential substances or components.

initial assembly

Emphasizes the preliminary construction or putting together of parts.

FAQs

How is "primary structure" defined in biology?

In biology, "primary structure" refers specifically to the linear sequence of amino acids that make up a protein. This sequence is held together by peptide bonds and determines the higher-order structures of the protein.

What comes after "primary structure" in protein structure?

The levels of protein structure following "primary structure" are secondary structure, tertiary structure, and quaternary structure. Each level describes progressively more complex arrangements of the protein's components.

In contexts outside of biology, what's a suitable alternative to "primary structure"?

Depending on the context, alternatives to "primary structure" could include "basic framework", "fundamental organization", or "initial configuration". The best choice depends on the specific meaning you wish to convey.

How does the "primary structure" of a protein relate to its function?

The "primary structure" of a protein, or its amino acid sequence, dictates its three-dimensional shape, which is critical for its function. Even a small change in the sequence can alter the protein's shape and affect its ability to perform its biological role.