1.
mutation; genetic mutation
A sudden, random change in the DNA sequence of an organism that can alter traits. Used in biology and genetics.
突然変異が起きた。
A mutation occurred.
放射線は突然変異を引き起こすことがある。
Radiation can cause mutations.
ウイルスの突然変異によって新しい株が生まれた。
A new strain emerged through a mutation of the virus.
2.
sudden, unexpected change; freak occurrence
Used figuratively to describe something that deviates dramatically and unexpectedly from the norm.
彼はこの業界の突然変異のような存在だ。
He's like a freak of nature in this industry.
平凡な家庭から突然変異的に天才が現れた。
A genius appeared as if by mutation from an ordinary family.
あの選手の活躍は、このチームにとって突然変異のようなものだった。
That player's performance was like a freak occurrence for this team.
突然変異 primarily refers to genetic mutation in biology, and is also used figuratively for something unexpectedly extraordinary.
WORD FORMATION:
突然 (sudden) + 変異 (variation, mutation).
COMMON COLLOCATIONS:
- 突然変異が起きる: a mutation occurs
- 突然変異を引き起こす: to cause a mutation
- 突然変異体: mutant (organism)
- 突然変異的: mutant-like, freakish
FIGURATIVE USE:
When used figuratively, 突然変異的 often carries admiration — describing exceptional talent or results appearing unexpectedly from ordinary origins.