a new function

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "a new function" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when referring to a recently introduced capability or feature in a system, application, or process. Example: "The software update includes a new function that allows users to customize their dashboards."

✓ Grammatically correct

Science

News & Media

Formal & Business

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

A new function for nonsense-mediated mRNA-decay factors.

Nature

Creates a new function object by copying an existing one.

Stanford University

Can the gasometer find a new function in our globally corporate age?

The Guardian - Arts

A new function for the γ-tubulin ring complex as a microtubule minus-end cap.

Nature

Some objects have been given a new function, others have not.

The Guardian - Lifestyle

Topoisomerase II plays a central role, thus identifying a new function for this critical molecule.

Nature

Don't just modify one you have, but write a new function.

Massachusetts Institute of Technology

Modify the form of the function but don't write a new function.

Massachusetts Institute of Technology

Google released a new function for collaborative mapping in Google Maps yesterday.

University of California, Berkeley

Together, our results identify a new function for histone methylation in mammalian DNA recombination.

Stanford University

"We have now seen the mechanisms by which a new function evolves at the atomic level, how evolution sculpted the protein structure to produce a new function," said Joseph W. Thornton, a biology professor at Oregon who led the research.

The New York Times - Science

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "a new function" to highlight discoveries or innovations, especially in scientific or technical writing, as it directly conveys the addition of a capability or purpose.

Common error

Avoid using "a new function" when the change is merely an incremental improvement. Ensure the function truly represents a substantial addition or alteration, not just a minor tweak.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "a new function" primarily acts as a noun phrase, often functioning as the subject or object of a sentence. It introduces a novel capability, role, or purpose. Ludwig indicates that this phrase is grammatically correct and widely used.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

Science

58%

News & Media

23%

Academia

12%

Less common in

Formal & Business

4%

Encyclopedias

1%

Wiki

1%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "a new function" is a grammatically sound and frequently used expression for denoting a novel role, capability, or feature. As Ludwig AI confirms, it's appropriate for various formal and informal settings, with primary usage in scientific, academic, and news contexts. When using this phrase, ensure that the function is genuinely new and distinct. Alternatives such as "an additional feature" or "a novel application" may be suitable depending on the specific nuance you wish to convey. Remember to clearly articulate the difference between the old and new functions for maximum clarity.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

an additional feature

Focuses on adding a capability or characteristic, rather than the role itself.

a novel application

Emphasizes the innovative use or purpose to which something is put.

a revised role

Indicates a modification to an existing purpose, rather than something entirely new.

an evolved purpose

Highlights the progression and development of a purpose over time.

a secondary task

Implies a supplementary or less important role.

a different capacity

Suggests a shift in the way something is utilized or employed.

a fresh responsibility

Focuses on a new duty or obligation.

an alternative use

Highlights an unconventional or substitute application.

a repurposed design

Emphasizes the modification and adaptation of an existing structure.

an innovative mechanism

Highlights an innovative process or system.

FAQs

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

You can use "a new function" to describe a newly discovered role or capability. For example, "The research identified "a new function" for this protein in cell signaling".

What are some alternatives to "a new function"?

Alternatives include "an additional feature", "a novel application", or "an evolved purpose", depending on the specific context.

Is it appropriate to use "a new function" in formal writing?

Yes, "a new function" is appropriate for formal writing, particularly in scientific, technical, or business contexts where describing newly discovered roles or capabilities is common.

What's the difference between "a new function" and "a revised role"?

"A new function" implies a completely novel purpose or capability, while "a revised role" suggests a modification or adaptation of an existing one.