can function as a

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "can function as a" is correct and can be used in written English.
You can use this phrase when expressing a particular purpose, for example: "This tool can function as a multi-purpose device for a variety of tasks."

✓ Grammatically correct

Science

News & Media

Academia

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

Klf4 can function as a tumor-suppressor gene and oncogene, depending on the cellular context.

Cell Death and Disease

This kind of fraud can function as a signaling mechanism by which regional governors display their loyalty to the Kremlin.

The Washington Post

Identity can function as a game of rock-paper-scissors.

The New Yorker

It can function as a powerful form of thought control.

The New Yorker

When used properly, these instruments can function as a legitimate kind of insurance.

The New York Times

And because the Internet permits interactivity, it can function as a simulacrum of a classroom.

The New York Times - Magazine

Here we show that SWI/SNF can function as a regulator of alternative splicing.

Nature

Technological change – Romer demonstrates how knowledge can function as a driver of long-term economic growth.

The Guardian - Business

These letters can reduce information asymmetries and can function as a type of deal insurance.

Columbia University

Finite: A finite verb has tense and can function as a main verb.

Yale University

The Nf1 gene encodes neurofibromin, which can function as a Ras GTPase-activating protein.

Stanford University

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "can function as a" to clearly define the role or purpose of something within a specific context. Ensure the surrounding sentence provides sufficient detail to understand how the function is performed.

Common error

Avoid overuse by varying your language with synonyms like "serves as", "acts as", or "operates as" to maintain reader engagement and avoid repetition.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "can function as a" serves as a linking verb phrase that connects a subject to a noun phrase, indicating the role, purpose, or capability of the subject. As Ludwig AI indicates, it is grammatically correct and commonly used.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

Science

40%

News & Media

38%

Academia

10%

Less common in

Wiki

6%

Formal & Business

3%

Reference

3%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "can function as a" is a versatile phrase used to describe the role, purpose, or capability of a subject. Ludwig AI confirms its grammatical correctness and common usage. It is prevalent in scientific, news, and academic contexts, indicating its wide applicability. While the phrase is straightforward, varying your language with synonyms can improve writing style. The phrase serves as a tool to define or specify roles across different domains, maintaining a neutral tone appropriate for diverse audiences.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

can serve as a

Emphasizes the action of providing a service or fulfilling a purpose.

can act as a

Focuses on performing a specific action or role, often temporarily.

can operate as a

Highlights the operational aspect or the way something works.

can be employed as a

Implies a deliberate use or application for a particular purpose.

can work as a

Suggests a practical application or suitability for a task.

is able to function as a

Highlights the capability or potential to perform a function.

can be utilized as a

Stresses the use of something for a specific application or task.

can double as a

Indicates a secondary or alternative function in addition to its primary one.

can stand in as a

Suggests a temporary replacement or substitution role.

can simulate being a

Focuses on imitating something else

FAQs

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

Use "can function as a" to describe the role or purpose of something. For example, "This app "can function as a" personal assistant."

What can I say instead of "can function as a"?

Alternatives include "can serve as a", "can act as a", or "can operate as a", depending on the context.

Is it correct to say "can function like a" instead of "can function as a"?

While "can function like a" isn't incorrect, ""can function as a"" is more precise when defining a direct role or purpose, whereas "like" implies similarity without being the same.

What's the difference between "can function as a" and "can be used as a"?

"Can function as a" implies an inherent ability or design, while "can be used as a" focuses on a potential application, regardless of inherent design. For example, "A hammer can be used as a paperweight" but "A dedicated software "can function as a" calculator".