a positive function

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "a positive function" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used in mathematical or scientific contexts to describe a function that yields positive values for its inputs. Example: "In calculus, we often analyze a positive function to determine its behavior over a specific interval."

✓ Grammatically correct

Science

News & Media

Encyclopedias

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

Functionalism also postulates that all cultural or social phenomena have a positive function and that all are indispensable.

Encyclopedia Britannica

Avoiding what is painful, to a great extent, seems to serve a positive function.

The New York Times - Magazine

The results indicate that guide plate has a positive function at disturbing flow field.

Ocean Engineering

Parasitoid abundance was a positive function of flower diversity, a local scale variable.

Landscape and Urban Planning

In Keynes' model, saving was a positive function of income, and, from both cross-section studies and casual empiricism, it was obvious that the savings ratio rose as income increased.

The Guardian

"Most recognize that we are serving a positive function that takes away some of the pain for the flier and some of the phone calls to the airline's call center for information," said Chris Lopinto, the co-founder of ExpertFlyer.com.

The New York Times - Travel

Let be a positive function satisfying.

Advances in Difference Equations

Note that (rho ) is a positive function.

Bulletin of Mathematical Sciences

where and is a positive function on with.

Advances in Difference Equations

(H1') there exists a positive function, such that (3.32).

Advances in Difference Equations

If there exists a positive function, such that (234).

Advances in Difference Equations

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "a positive function" in scientific writing, clearly define the parameters and conditions under which the function yields positive results to avoid ambiguity.

Common error

Avoid assuming that "a positive function" is always beneficial in all contexts. Even if a function yields positive values, its overall impact might have unintended consequences or side effects that need to be considered.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "a positive function" primarily functions as a noun phrase. It identifies something as having a beneficial or contributing role within a system or process, as evidenced by the numerous examples from Ludwig and the assessment of Ludwig AI.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

Science

45%

News & Media

25%

Encyclopedias

10%

Less common in

Formal & Business

10%

Academia

5%

Reference

5%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "a positive function" denotes something that serves a beneficial or constructive purpose. As Ludwig AI has confirmed, it is grammatically sound and widely used, especially in scientific and academic contexts. While its usage is generally straightforward, it's crucial to avoid assuming universal benefit and to clearly define the context in which positivity is claimed. Alternatives such as "a beneficial role" or "a constructive effect" can provide nuanced variations. Remember to consider the potential for unintended consequences even when describing something as having "a positive function".

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

a positive contribution

This alternative uses "contribution" instead of function.

a favorable role

Focuses on the advantageous aspect of the role.

a beneficial role

Focuses on the advantageous aspect of the function.

a helpful purpose

Highlights the intention and utility of the function.

a constructive role

Emphasizes the positive outcome or result of the role.

a constructive effect

Emphasizes the positive outcome or result of the function.

a valuable contribution

Stresses the significance and worth of the function.

a supportive role

Indicates the function aids and reinforces a process or system.

a good influence

Suggests a positive impact or effect on something.

a useful service

Indicates that the function provides assistance or support.

FAQs

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

You can use "a positive function" to describe something that has a beneficial or helpful role. For example, "Creative achievements may serve "a positive function" for the artist in easing existential anxieties".

What is the difference between "a positive function" and "a negative function"?

"A positive function" refers to something with a beneficial or helpful effect, while "a negative function" implies a detrimental or harmful effect. They are opposites in terms of their impact.

What are some alternatives to using "a positive function"?

You can use alternatives like "a beneficial role", "a helpful purpose", or "a constructive effect" depending on the context.

In what fields is the term "a positive function" commonly used?

The term "a positive function" is commonly used in fields like mathematics, science, social science and functionalism.