在基因学中，显性（英语：dominance）是一个基因中一对等位基因之间的关系，其中一个等位基因的表型会表现出来，掩盖了同一基因座中另一个等位基因的表现。前面的等位基因称为显性基因，后者则称为隐性（recessive）基因。对于体染色体（除性染色体外的任何染色体）上的基因来说，其等位基因与所联系的性状可分为体染色体显性（autosomal dominant）与体染色体隐性（autosomal recessive）。显性是孟德尔遗传与古典遗传学的关键概念。通常显性等位基因可以转译成一个有功能的蛋白质，而隐性等位基因无法转译。

This formula relies on a number of assumptions and an accurate estimate of the frequency of the recessive trait. In general, any real-world situation will deviate from these assumptions to some degree, introducing corresponding inaccuracies into the estimate. If the recessive trait is rare, then it will be hard to estimate its frequency accurately, as a very large sample size will be needed.