ad hoc functions

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "ad hoc functions" is correct and usable in written English.
It is typically used to describe functions or tasks that are created for a specific purpose or situation, often on a temporary basis. Example: "The committee established several ad hoc functions to address the immediate needs of the project."

✓ Grammatically correct

Science

News & Media

Formal & Business

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

1 human-written examples

In this study, we propose an enhanced fuzzy clustering algorithm related to α-cut interval descriptions of fuzzy numbers and a new cluster validity index, which occurs by α-cut intervals and adding two ad hoc functions in the compactness and separability measures.

Expert Systems with Applications

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

59 human-written examples

Similarly, software development teams are spontaneous and ad hoc, functioning as virtual organizations.

Cognitive Systems Research

An ad hoc function used to compute sliding window density and average value in window, if a y array is provided.

Yale University

In describing this system we exploit a feature of CWC which allows computing the rate of some reaction with an ad hoc function used to represent nonstandard kinetics.

BioMed Research International

Using an ad hoc function of the N eurolucida software (based on the Cavalieri method; MicroBrightField, Inc., Colchester, VT, USA), the volume of the cervical lesion (in mm) was extrapolated from the reconstructions of the lesion on consecutive histological longitudinal sections of the cervical cord (see Table 1).

European Journal of Neuroscience

Using an ad hoc function of the Neurolucida software (based on the Cavalieri method), the volume of the cortical lesion (in mm) was extrapolated from the reconstructions of the lesion on consecutive histological sections of the brain (see Table  1; Kaeser et al. 2010).

Brain Structure and Function

It has been an ad hoc affair.

The Guardian

Previous researchers had used ad hoc prediction functions.

Computer Networks

The shape of the response surface of landing rate against the proportion of surface occupied by wheat, and the spatial autocorrelation of wheat plots, appears very regular and relatively simple to model by ad hoc mathematical functions.

Ecological Informatics

Secondly, they employ ad hoc weight functions for modeling multi-criteria interaction (Sadasivuni et al. 2009).

International Journal of Disaster Risk Science

In other approaches, threshold do not result as emergent phenomena, but must be imposed through ad hoc regulatory functions (see for example [3] or [4, pp. 237]).

Plosone

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When describing a function as "ad hoc", ensure the context clearly indicates its temporary and specific nature. This avoids ambiguity and clarifies its role within a larger system or process.

Common error

Avoid using "ad hoc functions" as a general term for any unplanned activity. The phrase should specifically refer to functions intentionally created to address a unique, short-term need; otherwise, use more general terms like "unplanned tasks" or "additional duties."

Linguistic Context

The phrase "ad hoc functions" primarily functions as a noun phrase, where "ad hoc" modifies "functions". It describes functions that are created or adapted for a specific purpose or situation, often on a temporary basis. As noted by Ludwig AI, the phrase is grammatically correct and usable in written English, referring to tasks created for a specific situation.

Expression frequency: Uncommon

Frequent in

Science

45%

News & Media

28%

Formal & Business

27%

Less common in

Academia

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Wiki

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "ad hoc functions" refers to functions designed for specific, often temporary, purposes. Ludwig AI confirms its grammatical correctness and usability. While not extremely common, the phrase appears across various reputable sources, primarily in scientific, news, and formal business contexts. When using this phrase, ensure the context clearly indicates the function's temporary and specific nature to avoid ambiguity. Remember, more general terms might be suitable if the function isn't intentionally tailored for a unique, short-term need. Alternatives include "temporary functions" or "specific-purpose functions", depending on the nuance you wish to convey. It is important to know that this kind of phrases have a formal and scientific register.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

temporary functions

Replaces "ad hoc" with "temporary", focusing on the function's limited duration.

specific-purpose functions

Emphasizes that the function is designed for a distinct, particular aim.

custom-built functions

Highlights the tailored nature of the functions, created for a unique need.

on-demand functions

Suggests that the functions are activated or created only when required.

bespoke functions

A more formal term indicating functions tailored to a very specific requirement.

adhoc arrangements

Focuses on the setup or plan being created for a particular situation

improvised functions

Highlights the aspect of these functions being created quickly, using what is available.

unplanned functions

Emphasizes that these functions were not part of the original design or plan.

extemporaneous functions

Indicates that the functions are created without preparation, on the spot.

contingency functions

Implies that these functions are designed for unforeseen events or special circumstances.

FAQs

How can I use "ad hoc functions" in a sentence?

You can use "ad hoc functions" to describe temporary or specific functions created for a particular purpose. For example, "The team developed "ad hoc functions" to address the immediate crisis."

What can I say instead of "ad hoc functions"?

You can use alternatives like "temporary functions", "specific-purpose functions", or "custom-built functions depending on the context".

When is it appropriate to use the term "ad hoc"?

The term "ad hoc" is appropriate when describing something created or done for a particular purpose as needed, especially if it is temporary or not fully planned. This contrasts with more permanent or systematically designed solutions.

What's the difference between "ad hoc functions" and standard operating procedures?

"Ad hoc functions" are created for specific, often temporary, situations, while standard operating procedures are established, documented routines followed regularly. "Ad hoc functions" provide flexibility; standard procedures ensure consistency.