a primary function

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "a primary function" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it to describe the main or most important role or purpose of something. Example: "The primary function of this software is to streamline project management and improve team collaboration."

✓ Grammatically correct

Science

News & Media

Encyclopedias

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

58 human-written examples

Thus, the growth retardation phenotype is shared between human and mouse when FTO is not functional, indicating a primary function of FTO in the regulation of linear growth.

Plosone

Holding opposites together is a primary function of classical art.

The New York Times - Arts

Health monitoring has also been suggested as a primary function with heart rate monitors common to the wearables.

The Guardian - Tech

I think that's a primary function of the band, putting everything in the pot and then sculpting it together".

The Guardian - Music

A primary function of lymphocytes is to protect the body from foreign microbes.

Encyclopedia Britannica

And if a primary function of poetry is to expand and enrich the scope of a native language, Stevens has no equal in American English except Walt Whitman.

The New Yorker

Holding opposites together is a primary function of classical art, and Ms. Diller and Mr. Scofidio are classicists in this dialectical sense.

The New York Times - Arts

Other agencies for which adult education is a related rather than a primary function are libraries, museums, botanical gardens, and the like.

Encyclopedia Britannica

In site planning, a primary function of architectural design, the architect aims to create harmonies with preexisting elements in the landscape and "townscape".

Encyclopedia Britannica

Recognizing these patterns is a primary function of PlaceUs' context awareness technology.

TechCrunch

WAFL productized snapshotting as a primary function of enterprise class storage systems.

TechCrunch

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "a primary function", ensure that it clearly indicates the most important role or purpose, especially when other secondary functions exist. This helps avoid ambiguity and clarifies the main focus.

Common error

Avoid using "a primary function" when the function is merely important but not definitively the most significant. If multiple functions are equally crucial, consider using terms like "a key function" or "an important function" to better reflect the balanced importance.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "a primary function" serves as a noun phrase that identifies the main or most important purpose or role of something. It is often used to define or explain the core activity or responsibility associated with a system, object, or entity. Ludwig AI confirms its correct usage.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

Science

60%

News & Media

25%

Encyclopedias

8%

Less common in

Wiki

3%

Formal & Business

2%

Social Media

2%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "a primary function" is a grammatically correct and frequently used expression to describe the main or most important role of something. As confirmed by Ludwig AI, it's suitable for various contexts, including science, news media, and encyclopedias. When using this phrase, ensure that the described function is indeed the most significant to avoid ambiguity. Related phrases include "a main function" and "a key function". While broadly applicable, remember to verify that there is not an overstatement when describing something as the most important function.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

a main function

Replaces "primary" with "main", indicating the most important function but potentially suggesting other important functions exist.

a key function

Substitutes "primary" with "key", highlighting the function's essential nature.

a core function

Emphasizes the function as being at the very center or heart of something.

a central function

Positions the function as centrally important or integral.

a fundamental function

Indicates the function is a basic, underlying requirement.

a principal function

Uses "principal" to denote the chief or foremost function.

a basic function

Similar to "fundamental" but might suggest a simpler or more foundational role.

the main purpose

Shifts the focus from function to purpose, emphasizing intent or goal.

the principal role

Emphasizes the role or part played, instead of the function performed.

the chief responsibility

Highlights the aspect of duty or obligation associated with the function.

FAQs

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

Use "a primary function" to describe the most important role or purpose of something. For example, "A primary function of the heart is to pump blood".

What are some alternatives to "a primary function"?

You can use alternatives like "a main function", "a key function", or "a central function" depending on the specific context.

What's the difference between "a primary function" and "an important function"?

"A primary function" emphasizes that it is the most important or main function, while "an important function" suggests that the function is significant, but not necessarily the most significant one.

Is it correct to use "a primary function" even if there are other important functions?

Yes, it is correct as long as the function being described is indeed the most important or main one. If there are multiple equally important functions, consider using alternatives like "a key function".