a key function of

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "a key function of" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe an important role or purpose that something serves within a particular context or system. Example: "Communication is a key function of effective teamwork, ensuring that all members are aligned and informed."

✓ Grammatically correct

Science

News & Media

Formal & Business

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

57 human-written examples

A key function of TGFβ is its ability to induce EMT [1], [5], [6], [18].

Plosone

Allowing the exercise of free speech is just as much a key function of the city's parks as allowing softball or in-line skating.

The New York Times

A key function of sleep is to restore neurons in the brain, a process that is critical to learning and mastering new information, he said.

The New York Times

Explaining the Fed's reaction function, as this sort of guidance is called, has always been a key function of Fedspeak.

The Economist

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

The New York Times - Arts

Clinton tapped a lawyer named David Goldwyn as her special envoy for international energy affairs; his charge was "to elevate energy diplomacy as a key function of US foreign policy".

The Guardian

Within a fortnight of arriving at the newly created department, Fox wrote to Johnson, copying in May, to ask for economic diplomacy – a key function of the Foreign Office – to become part of the remit of his department.

The Guardian

Finally, the necessity of 'getting out of the way' – I'm indebted here to the influential business philosopher Peter Koestenbaum, who has stated that a key function of a leader is to develop the individual freedom of the others.

The Guardian

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

3 human-written examples

A key function of maternal proteins accumulated in mature oocyte is the regulation of early embryogenesis.

BMC Genomics

Increasing the share of national income that goes to wages rather than profit a key function of trade unions boosts the economy because the average person has more money to spend".

Vice

A key function of RAM is to stabilize RNMT protein [ 12].

Biochemical Journal

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using the phrase "a key function of", ensure that the subject you are describing truly has a central and critical role in the context you are providing.

Common error

Avoid using "a key function of" to describe something that is merely helpful or supportive, but not fundamentally necessary. This can weaken your argument and mislead the reader.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "a key function of" serves as a subject complement, linking the subject to a crucial role or purpose. It highlights the significance of something, as confirmed by Ludwig's examples demonstrating its common use in diverse contexts to emphasize importance.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

Science

45%

News & Media

40%

Formal & Business

15%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

0%

Wiki

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "a key function of" is a widely used and grammatically sound phrase for emphasizing the significant role or purpose of something. Ludwig AI confirms its correctness and frequent usage across diverse domains like science, news, and business. When writing, remember to use this phrase when accurately representing the criticality of a role, and avoid overstating less essential aspects. Considering alternatives like "a primary role of" or "an essential function of" can help you to fine-tune the meaning in your writing. With its versatility and prevalence, "a key function of" is a valuable addition to any writer's toolkit.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

a primary role of

Emphasizes the main role, focusing on importance.

a main purpose of

Highlights the intended outcome or aim.

an essential function of

Stresses the necessity and indispensability.

a crucial role of

Indicates a decisive or critical role.

a vital aspect of

Focuses on an important element or feature.

a fundamental task of

Highlights a basic or foundational duty.

a central component of

Emphasizes being a core part or element.

a significant feature of

Points out a notable or meaningful characteristic.

a defining characteristic of

Highlights a trait that distinguishes it from others.

a major responsibility of

Highlights a significant duty or obligation.

FAQs

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

Use "a key function of" to highlight a crucial role or purpose. For instance, "A key function of the government is to protect its citizens."

What are some alternatives to "a key function of"?

You can use alternatives like "a primary role of", "an essential function of", or "a crucial aspect of" depending on the specific nuance you want to convey.

Is it always appropriate to use "a key function of" in formal writing?

Yes, "a key function of" is appropriate for formal writing, as it clearly and professionally indicates a significant role or purpose. However, ensure that it accurately reflects the importance of the function being described.

How does "a key function of" differ from "a secondary function of"?

"A key function of" emphasizes a primary and crucial role, while "a secondary function of" refers to a less important, supplementary role. The choice depends on the actual significance of the function within the given context.