a vital function of

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "a vital function of" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe an essential role or purpose that something serves within a particular context or system. Example: "The immune system plays a vital function of protecting the body against infections and diseases."

✓ Grammatically correct

Science

News & Media

Academia

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

17 human-written examples

"It's a vital function of the ongoing missions in New York City".

The New York Times - Arts

Enlisting individuals in efforts that will enhance their lives and their communities is a vital function of Cornell Cooperative Extension.

Cornell University

Promoting a country's art, music and literature is a vital function of any consulate, and where more so than in this city?

The New York Times

Inflammation is a vital function of your innate immune system that is triggered immediately when it detects an invading pathogen or damaged tissue.

Harvard University

This is a vital function of Sadness in the film: It guides Riley to recognize the changes she is going through and what she has lost, which sets the stage for her to develop new facets of her identity.

The New York Times

It is the first time that a study has found a direct effect of the many ubiquitous man‑made chemicals in the environment on a vital function of human sperm.

Independent

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

43 human-written examples

Local NGOs can report on the actions of corporations -- a vital function to empowering communities to protect their interests.

HuffPost

The community colleges have served a vital function in the role of providing post-secondary education to students from a multitude of backgrounds.

Los Angeles Times

Corridors play a vital function in areas of mixed land use, particularly in the middle latitudes (13.5° to 15° north) where mobility is increasingly constrained due to land use competition with crop agriculture.

Pastoralism

Cytochrome, any of a group of hemoprotein cell components that, by readily undergoing reduction and oxidation (gain and loss of electrons) with the aid of enzymes, serve a vital function in the transfer of energy within cells.

Encyclopedia Britannica

Cahill stated in 1936 that "The organization of the Project has proceeded on the principle that it is not the solitary genius but a sound general movement which maintains art as a vital, functioning part of any cultural scheme.

Encyclopedia Britannica

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "a vital function of", ensure that the subject performing the function is clearly identified to avoid ambiguity. For example, specify "a vital function of the immune system" rather than just "a vital function".

Common error

Avoid overuse of "a vital function of" when describing routine or less important activities. Reserve it for genuinely critical roles to maintain its impact and credibility.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "a vital function of" primarily functions as a noun phrase modifier, specifying the importance or essential nature of the noun it describes. Ludwig AI confirms its correctness and usability.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

Science

40%

News & Media

33%

Academia

17%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

4%

Wiki

4%

Formal & Business

2%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "a vital function of" is a grammatically sound and frequently used expression for emphasizing the essential role or purpose of something. Ludwig AI affirms its correctness and provides numerous examples from reliable sources. It is most commonly found in scientific, news and media, and academic contexts, denoting a high level of importance. Alternatives like "an essential role of" or "a crucial aspect of" can be used to diversify writing while maintaining the same core meaning. Remember to clearly identify the subject performing the function and avoid overuse to preserve its impact.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

an essential role of

Replaces "vital function" with "essential role", maintaining the emphasis on importance.

a crucial aspect of

Substitutes "vital function" with "crucial aspect", highlighting the significance of a particular element.

a key component of

Replaces "vital function" with "key component", focusing on the integral part something plays.

a critical element of

Similar to "crucial aspect", but emphasizes the necessity of the element.

an integral part of

Highlights that something is an essential and necessary component.

a fundamental task of

Replaces "function" with "task", emphasizing the essential duty or activity.

a primary responsibility of

Shifts the focus to the duty or obligation associated with the function.

a significant attribute of

Emphasizes a noteworthy characteristic instead of a process.

a notable feature of

Highlights an important and easily recognized characteristic.

a central tenet of

Indicates a core principle or belief.

FAQs

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

Use "a vital function of" to describe an essential role or purpose. For example, "Maintaining biodiversity is "a vital function of" environmental conservation".

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

You can use alternatives such as "an essential role of", "a crucial aspect of", or "a key component of" to convey a similar meaning.

Is it correct to say 'the vital function is' instead of "a vital function of"?

While grammatically correct, "the vital function is" focuses on identifying the function itself, whereas "a vital function of" highlights the role within a larger context. The best choice depends on the intended emphasis.

How does "a vital function of" differ from "an important function of"?

"A vital function of" implies a higher degree of necessity and criticality compared to "an important function of". "A vital function of" is essential for survival or proper operation, while an important function is merely significant.