a passive function

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "a passive function" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used in contexts discussing roles, behaviors, or characteristics that do not actively engage or exert influence, often in technical or academic discussions. Example: "In this system, a passive function is responsible for monitoring data without altering it."

✓ Grammatically correct

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

4 human-written examples

This hysteretic model is based on a modification of the Bouc Wen model, where a nonlinear term is replaced by a passive function.

Mechanical Systems and Signal Processing

During round 1, a passive function item, "Cleaning around the elbow" was removed.

Disability and Rehabilitation

Traditionally, fat tissue was considered to be solely an energy storage depot having only a passive function in the body.

Cell Communication and Signaling

17 Skin has both a "passive" function (as a physicochemical barrier) and an "active" function (as a neuroimmunoendocrine barrier).

Clinical interventions in aging

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

56 human-written examples

Furthermore, the transmitter is only charged with the operation of emitting a Frequency Modulated Continuous Wave (FMCW) signal and an appropriate synchronization beacon, while the receiver performs a totally passive function.

Aerospace Science and Technology

The nuclear localization of C/EBPβ indicates an active role of this transcription factor in tumour cells, whereas the cytoplasmic distribution suggests a more passive function of C/EBPα.

British Journal of Cancer

I L represents the photon generating current, (I_{O}) represents the saturated current in the diode, Rs represents the resistance in the series, A represents the passive function of the diode, k (= 1.38 × 10−23 W/m2 K) represents Boltzmann's constant, q (= 1.6 × 10−19 C) represents the magnitude of the charge of an electron and TC represents the functional cell temperature.

International Journal of Energy and Environmental Engineering

This study describes the systematic development of the ArmA, a measure of active and passive function in the hemiparetic upper limb.

Disability and Rehabilitation

Since the development of the microdialysis technique, which mimics the passive function of a capillary blood vessel, it is now possible to examine the interstitial space of intact tissue.

Critical Care

The LASIS was designed to assess passive function with an active function item, using the affected hand to hold and stabilise objects [ 6 ].

Disability and Rehabilitation

However, none of these tools provided a comprehensive assessment of both active and passive function reflective of "real-life", and all had limitations in respect of psychometric evaluation [ 5], the arm activity measure (shortly ArmA) was therefore developed to address these deficiencies.

Disability and Rehabilitation

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "a passive function", ensure the context clearly differentiates it from active or primary functions. This distinction clarifies the role and importance of the passive element within the system or process.

Common error

Avoid using "a passive function" when an active or influential role is more accurate. The term implies inactivity or lack of direct impact, which may misrepresent the function's true contribution.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "a passive function" typically serves as a noun phrase identifying a role, process, or component within a system that operates without actively influencing or changing its environment. Ludwig AI confirms this usage, showing examples primarily in scientific contexts.

Expression frequency: Rare

Frequent in

Science

100%

Less common in

News & Media

0%

Formal & Business

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "a passive function" is a noun phrase primarily used in scientific and technical contexts to describe a role, process, or component that doesn't actively engage or exert influence. Ludwig AI analysis indicates that this phrase is grammatically correct and functions to define supportive or background elements within a system. While the phrase is relatively rare, understanding its precise meaning is crucial for accurate technical writing. Related terms include "an inactive role" and "a secondary function", offering alternative ways to express similar concepts. Remember to use this phrase when you want to emphasize a role that lacks direct impact or is observational in nature.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

an inactive role

Replaces 'passive' with 'inactive' and 'function' with 'role', emphasizing the lack of activity.

a non-essential function

Replaces 'passive' with 'non-essential', suggesting the function is not critical.

a secondary function

Emphasizes that the function is of lesser importance compared to others.

a latent function

Suggests the function is present but not currently active or apparent.

a dormant function

Indicates the function is temporarily inactive or suspended.

a subsidiary function

Highlights that the function is supportive and dependent on another main function.

a supportive function

Emphasizes the assisting nature of the function.

a background function

Highlights that the function operates in the background without direct interaction.

a maintenance function

Suggests the function is for upkeep rather than primary operation.

a monitoring function

Highlights that the function is observational rather than actively engaging.

FAQs

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

You can use "a passive function" to describe a role or process that doesn't actively engage or exert influence. For example, "In this system, a monitoring process serves as "a passive function", observing data without altering it".

What are some alternatives to "a passive function"?

Consider alternatives such as "an inactive role", "a secondary function", or "a supportive function" depending on the specific context.

Which is correct, "a passive function" or "an inactive function"?

Both "a passive function" and "an inactive function" can be correct, but they have slightly different connotations. "Passive" suggests lack of active engagement, while "inactive" suggests a state of not being currently in operation. Choose the term that best fits the intended meaning.

What's the difference between "a passive function" and "a reactive function"?

"A passive function" implies inactivity or lack of direct influence, whereas "a reactive function" implies responding to external stimuli or events. The key difference is whether the function initiates action (reactive) or remains inactive unless acted upon (passive).