according to function

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "according to function" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when discussing how something is categorized or organized based on its purpose or role. Example: "The components of the system are arranged according to function to enhance efficiency and usability."

✓ Grammatically correct

Science

News & Media

Encyclopedias

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

The orthologous clusters were grouped according to function on the basis of functional classification in the arCOG [ 54] database.

BMC Genomics

Focussing on genes grouped according to function, we ask whether a functional category harbours an excess of nonsynonymous polymorphic coding positions showing specific signatures of constraints, and more interestingly recent changes in evolutionary constraints specifically in the human lineage.

BMC Evolutionary Biology

A vessel could be he, she, or it, according to function or perception.

The New Yorker

The material is organized thematically, with items grouped according to function rather than by geography, which makes for some intriguing juxtapositions.

The New York Times

They were variously dressed, according to function and rank: from golden turbans pinned with precious stones to simple dhoti bands worn around the hips by those at the bottom of the hierarchy.

The New Yorker

Each service element here is coloured according to function: red for the structural steel; yellow for the giant structure supporting the roof; orange for the toilet cubicles; purple and pink for the fire escape and ventilation.

The Guardian - Arts

However, it boasts the world's first Modernist building and six semi-detached "Master Houses" brilliantly designed according to function, light and privacy.

Independent

A gong-and-drum percussion ensemble can range from two or three players to a dozen, and instrumentation and style vary according to function and region.

Encyclopedia Britannica

Here was to be a city where space was scientifically organised according to function, not by arbitrary criteria like human whim or market value.In this section Net losses Who says Brasilia doesn't work?

The Economist

There are also significant objects categorized according to function; for example, animal gear represented by the woven harness of donkeys in Spain, carved and painted ox yokes and sheep collars, brass-studded and tasseled headpieces, and ornaments supposedly endowed with protective powers.

Encyclopedia Britannica

Votes are counted and according to function f, the government outcome is determined.

SERIEs

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "according to function", ensure that the function being referenced is clearly defined and understood within the context of your writing. For instance, instead of saying "items were grouped according to function", specify the function: "items were grouped according to their transport function within the cell".

Common error

Avoid using "according to function" without explicitly stating what function is being referred to. Omitting this clarity can lead to ambiguity and confusion for the reader.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "according to function" primarily serves as an adverbial phrase, modifying a verb to specify the criteria or basis for an action or classification. Ludwig examples show its use in grouping genes or classifying proteins. The use of the adverbial phrase provides context or clarifies the criteria of the argument.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

Science

64%

News & Media

25%

Encyclopedias

8%

Less common in

Formal & Business

1%

Unknown

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "according to function" is a grammatically correct and versatile prepositional phrase used to indicate that something is categorized, organized, or designed based on its purpose or role. As Ludwig AI confirms, this phrase is used in various contexts, particularly in scientific and technical fields. While highly frequent across diverse sources, including news and media, encyclopedias and primarily science, it is advisable to clearly define the specific function being referenced to avoid ambiguity. Alternatives such as "based on functionality" or "in terms of purpose" can be considered for stylistic variation.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

based on functionality

Emphasizes the operational aspect and purpose as the foundation for categorization.

depending on its role

Highlights the specific part something plays when determining its classification.

in terms of purpose

Focuses on the intended objective or aim as the basis for differentiation.

as per its design

Highlights the intended design and how that affects categorization.

by virtue of its use

Stresses how an item's practical application defines its classification.

classified by task

Indicates that classification is determined by the specific job or duty performed.

organized by objective

Emphasizes that the arrangement is based on the desired outcome or goal.

categorized by utility

Highlights the usefulness and practical value in the categorization process.

designated by application

Focuses on the specific context or scenario where something is used to classify it.

structured around intent

Emphasizes how the underlying intention shapes the way something is organized or classified.

FAQs

How can I use "according to function" in a sentence?

You can use "according to function" to describe how something is categorized or organized based on its purpose. For example: "The genes were grouped "according to function" to better understand their roles in the biological process".

What are some alternatives to "according to function"?

Some alternatives to "according to function" include "based on functionality", "depending on its role", and "in terms of purpose". The best choice depends on the specific context and desired emphasis.

Is it better to say "according to its function" or "according to function"?

Both phrases are grammatically correct. "According to function" is more concise and commonly used, especially in scientific and technical contexts. Adding "its" might add clarity in certain situations where the possessive is strongly implied, but generally it is not necessary.

What does it mean when something is classified "according to function"?

When something is classified "according to function", it means it's grouped or categorized based on its role, purpose, or activity. For instance, in biology, proteins might be grouped "according to function", such as enzymes, structural proteins, or transport proteins.