a possible function

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "a possible function" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when discussing potential roles or purposes that something may serve in a particular context. Example: "In this experiment, we are exploring a possible function of the new compound in enhancing plant growth."

✓ Grammatically correct

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

Many of these genes have a possible function in signal transduction or possibly as regulatory elements.

Physiological and Molecular Plant Pathology

Efferent inhibition on the cochlea is suggested as a possible function of the olivocochlear bundle (OCB).

Journal of the Neurological Sciences

A possible function of the oligomerization of the GABAB heterodimer is modulation of receptor signalling.

Biophysics Reports

With a possible function as battery in portable devices the banded structure PEM fuel cell will be an advantageous alternative to the conventional stack.

Electrochimica Acta

These results do not however exclude a possible function for SMG-1 in sensory perception.

Plosone

The expression pattern of Maestro during embryonic gonadogenesis suggests a possible function in testis development.

Plosone

A possible function of HCO3−/Cl− exchange during meiosis would be to mediate pHi change.

Plosone

Therefore, a possible function of STK35 in the regulation of the actin cytoskeleton was proposed [7].

Plosone

It is difficult to speculate on a possible function of Asterix, or even to determine its most likely structure.

Plosone

If gene ontogeny data were not available, we performed a BLAST search to assign a possible function.

Plosone

Insights into a possible function of PrP may be obtained through the characterization of its molecular neighborhood in cells.

Plosone

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "a possible function", ensure that you clearly articulate the context in which the function might occur, as this helps avoid ambiguity and strengthens your argument.

Common error

Avoid presenting "a possible function" as a definitive role. Always maintain a cautious tone by using qualifiers like "may", "could", or "might" to reflect the uncertainty inherent in suggesting a possibility.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "a possible function" serves as a noun phrase, identifying a potential role or purpose. Ludwig AI examples show it frequently used in scientific contexts when discussing hypothetical or yet-to-be-confirmed mechanisms.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

Science

100%

Less common in

News & Media

0%

Formal & Business

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "a possible function" is a common and grammatically sound way to introduce a potential role or purpose, according to Ludwig AI analysis. It's most frequently used in scientific contexts, where researchers propose hypotheses and explore potential mechanisms. To maintain accuracy and avoid overstating claims, it's important to use qualifiers like "may" or "could" when discussing "a possible function". Alternatives include "a potential role" or "a likely purpose", offering similar meanings with slight variations in emphasis.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

a potential role

Replaces "function" with "role", suggesting a task or duty something could perform.

a likely purpose

Substitutes "function" with "purpose", emphasizing the intended use or aim.

a potential use

Focuses on the practical application of something, replacing "function" with "use".

a conceivable function

Replaces "possible" with "conceivable", indicating something is imaginable or believable.

a suspected role

Indicates that a role is believed but not definitively known.

a postulated function

Implies the function is based on a theory or assumption.

a suggested mechanism

Implies a more specific, step-by-step process, differing from the broader "function".

a hypothetical role

Adds a level of uncertainty, suggesting the role is not yet proven.

a tentative function

Suggests the function is not yet fully established or confirmed.

a theorized role

Emphasizes that the role is based on a theoretical understanding.

FAQs

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

You can use "a possible function" to suggest a potential role or purpose something may have. For instance, "A possible function of this protein is to regulate cell growth".

What are some alternatives to "a possible function"?

Alternatives include "a potential role", "a likely purpose", or "a suggested mechanism", depending on the specific context.

Is it better to say "possible function" or "potential function"?

Both "possible function" and "potential function" are grammatically correct and have similar meanings. The choice often depends on stylistic preference, although "potential function" may sometimes imply a greater likelihood or inherent capability.

How do I avoid overstating claims when discussing "a possible function"?

Use qualifying words like "may", "might", or "could" to indicate uncertainty. For example, instead of saying "This is the function", say "This may be a possible function".