a distinct function

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "a distinct function" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it to describe a specific role or purpose that is clearly defined and separate from others. Example: "In this project, each team member has a distinct function that contributes to the overall success."

✓ Grammatically correct

Science

Encyclopedias

Science & Research

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

Biological systems are distinguished by the occurrence of discrete entities with a distinct function, which are often termed as functional modules [9].

Plosone

The V1 contains six layers, each of which has a distinct function.

Encyclopedia Britannica

Locke considered arresting a person, trying a person, and punishing a person as all part of the function of executing the law rather than as a distinct function.

SEP

Locke did not think of interpreting law as a distinct function because he thought it was a part of both the legislative and executive functions (Tuckness 2002a).

SEP

Locke is not opposed to having distinct institutions called courts, but he does not see interpretation as a distinct function or power.

SEP

Using mouse models in which HIF-1α and HIF-2α are overexpressed in intestinal epithelial cells demonstrate a distinct function for these transcription factors in IBD.

Molecular and Cellular Pediatrics

The changes engineers make have a distinct function; they are intended to create an optimum solution for a human or societal need (Koen 2003).

International Journal of STEM Education

Lesson analyses suggest that each move in an exchange enacts a distinct function in pedagogic relations, by co-selecting an act with an interact.

Functional Linguistics

TGF-b may be present in the skin under three forms, each representing a different state of activation and each performing a distinct function with regards to TGF-b signalling in skin cells.

Science Magazine

Each isotype is adapted for a distinct function; therefore, after activation, an antibody with an IgG, IgA, or IgE effector function might be required to effectively eliminate an antigen.

Wikipedia

Altogether, these observations lead us to hypothesize that X-tox proteins evolved to a distinct function.

Plosone

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "a distinct function", ensure that the context clearly establishes what makes the function different from others. Provide specific details to highlight its unique contribution or characteristics.

Common error

Avoid using "a distinct function" if the function is not truly unique or if its distinctiveness is not supported by evidence. Provide clear justification for why the function is considered distinct.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "a distinct function" primarily serves as a noun phrase, often functioning as the object of a verb or the complement of a preposition. It identifies a specific role or purpose that is separate and distinguishable from others, as demonstrated by Ludwig's examples.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

Science

89%

Encyclopedias

5%

Science & Research

3%

Less common in

Formal & Business

0%

News & Media

0%

Wiki

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "a distinct function" is a grammatically sound and frequently used noun phrase, as validated by Ludwig. It serves to highlight the unique role or purpose of something within a system, emphasizing its separateness and individuality. Its primary use is in formal and scientific contexts, ensuring clarity and precision in communication. As Ludwig AI confirms, this phrase is widely accepted and provides a clear way to describe something's unique contribution.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

a unique purpose

Focuses on the uniqueness of the purpose rather than the separation from other functions.

a separate role

Highlights the distinctness of the role, emphasizing its independence.

a specific task

Emphasizes the particular nature of the task performed.

a specialized role

Highlights the specialization involved in the role.

a discrete function

Similar, but emphasizes separateness and individuality.

a particular duty

Focuses on the obligation or responsibility associated with the function.

an individual responsibility

Highlights the personal accountability for the function.

a unique attribute

Shifts the focus to the characteristic or quality that makes the function distinct.

a dedicated task

Focuses on the commitment and exclusivity of the task.

a well-defined purpose

Emphasizes the clarity and precision of the function's objective.

FAQs

How can I use "a distinct function" in a sentence?

You can use "a distinct function" to describe something that has a unique purpose or role. For example: "Each department within the company has "a distinct function" in achieving the overall business goals."

What are some alternatives to saying "a distinct function"?

Depending on the context, you could use alternatives like "a unique purpose", "a separate role", or "a specific task".

What's the difference between "a distinct function" and "a unique function"?

"A distinct function" emphasizes the separateness and individuality of the function, while "a unique function" emphasizes that there is nothing else like it. The choice depends on whether you want to highlight the difference or the singularity.

Is it redundant to say "a distinct and unique function"?

Yes, saying "a distinct and unique function" can be redundant because both words convey a similar meaning. It's usually best to choose either "distinct" or "unique" based on which aspect you want to emphasize.