a primary function of

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "a primary function of" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe the main purpose or role of something in a specific context. Example: "The primary function of the heart is to pump blood throughout the body."

✓ 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

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

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

Floral scents mediate ecological interactions and have a primary function of attracting visitors and pollinators.

Phytochemistry Letters

Self-rationale(s) of the economic system: Phrased simply, wealth creation defines a primary function of an economy.

Journal of Innovation and Entrepreneurship

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "a primary function of", ensure that you clearly define what the subject is and how its primary function contributes to a larger goal or system. This provides context and enhances understanding.

Common error

Avoid using "a primary function of" without clearly specifying the subject. For example, instead of saying "A primary function is to regulate...", specify which component or system has this primary function for better clarity.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "a primary function of" serves as a means to identify and emphasize the main purpose or role of a specific entity, system, or process. It establishes the most important task associated with the subject, helping to define its core utility as Ludwig AI suggests.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

Science

58%

News & Media

24%

Encyclopedias

5%

Less common in

Wiki

3%

Formal & Business

3%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "a primary function of" is a grammatically sound and prevalent expression used to highlight the core purpose or role of something. As Ludwig AI points out, its frequent presence in scientific, news, and encyclopedic contexts underscores its utility in formal and informative settings. When using this phrase, clarity is key: ensure the subject and its function are explicitly defined to avoid ambiguity. Consider synonyms like "a main purpose of" or "a key role of" to add nuance to your writing.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

a main purpose of

Focuses on the intended result or aim, rather than the operational role.

a key role of

Emphasizes the importance of the role, highlighting its significance.

a principal task of

Highlights the activity aspect as the most important.

the chief aim of

Highlights the objective of something.

a fundamental role of

Emphasizes the essential or foundational nature of the role.

a core responsibility of

Highlights the duty or obligation aspect of the function.

the essential characteristic of

Shifts focus to a defining attribute rather than a function.

the critical aspect of

Focuses on the importance of one consideration, but may not be limited to function.

the foremost duty of

Places emphasis on obligation, and the performance of it.

the central objective of

Highlights the central goal that guides something.

FAQs

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

Use "a primary function of" to specify the main purpose or role of something. For example, "A primary function of the kidneys is to filter waste from the blood."

What are some alternatives to "a primary function of"?

You can use alternatives like "a main purpose of", "a key role of", or "a principal task of" depending on the context.

Is it better to say "a main function of" or "a primary function of"?

Both "a main function of" and "a primary function of" are correct and can be used interchangeably. The choice depends on the specific emphasis you want to convey.

What is the difference between "a primary function of" and "a secondary function of"?

"A primary function of" refers to the most important or main purpose, while "a secondary function of" refers to a less important or additional purpose.