a key function

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "a key function" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe an important or essential role that something plays in a particular context or system. Example: "In our organization, communication serves as a key function in ensuring that all team members are aligned with the project goals."

✓ Grammatically correct

Science

News & Media

Formal & Business

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

So here's a key function.

Massachusetts Institute of Technology

Social connection is a key function of our brains.

The Washington Post

Rulemaking is a key function of the Commission.

Columbia University

Mackiewicz, M. et al. Macromolecule biosynthesis: a key function of sleep.

Nature

Dr. Gershenfeld said the scanner at his lab turned out to have a key function.

The New York Times

Although that is still a key function, many employers are expanding the clinics' role to include primary health-care services.

The Washington Post

The tokens, examples of which are also are in the show, transmitted information, a key function of writing.

The New York Times - Arts

Detection of the droplet contents is a key function for droplet-based microfluidic systems.

Journal of Electroanalytical Chemistry

In manufacturing systems, production planning and control performs a key function.

IFAC Proceedings Volumes

A key function of the wetland would be to provide additional N removal.

Water Research

A key function holds the term sustainability, which is assumed to dominate future policy approaches.

Agriculture, Ecosystems & Environment

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "a key function" to highlight essential roles or responsibilities within a process, system, or organization.

Common error

Avoid using "a key function" repeatedly in the same text. Vary your language by using synonyms such as "essential role", "crucial task", or "vital component" to maintain reader engagement and clarity.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "a key function" serves as a noun phrase functioning as a subject complement or object, highlighting an essential role or task. Ludwig examples confirm this usage across diverse contexts.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

Science

48%

News & Media

30%

Formal & Business

7%

Less common in

Academia

3%

Wiki

2%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "a key function" is a grammatically correct and frequently used phrase to emphasize the importance or necessity of a particular task or role. As confirmed by Ludwig AI, it is suitable for various contexts, including science, news, and formal business settings. While versatile, it's essential to use synonyms like "essential role" or "crucial task" to prevent overuse. Ludwig's examples highlight the phrase's adaptability and wide acceptance in authoritative sources.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

an essential function

Replaces "key" with "essential", emphasizing the necessity of the function.

a crucial role

Substitutes "function" with "role", highlighting the significance of the part played.

a vital component

Shifts the focus to the function as a necessary part of a larger system.

a fundamental aspect

Emphasizes the basic or foundational nature of the function.

a primary responsibility

Highlights the function as a main duty or obligation.

a central task

Focuses on the function as a main activity or job.

a critical element

Stresses the importance of the function as a decisive factor.

a significant feature

Draws attention to the function as a noteworthy characteristic.

an important duty

Highlights the function as a significant task or responsibility.

a major undertaking

Emphasizes the scale and importance of the function as a project or endeavor.

FAQs

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

You can use "a key function" to describe something important or essential within a specific context. For example, "Communication is "a key function" in any team project".

What are some alternatives to "a key function"?

You can use alternatives like "an essential role", "a crucial function", or "a vital component" depending on the context and the specific nuance you want to convey.

Is it redundant to say "a key and important function"?

Yes, saying "a key and important function" can be redundant. The word "key" already implies importance, so it's best to use either ""a key function"" or "an important function".

What's the difference between "a key function" and "a main function"?

"A key function" implies that the function is essential and critical, while "a main function" simply means it's one of the primary functions, without necessarily being the most important.