central function

USAGE SUMMARY

"central function" is a correct phrase in written English.
It is typically used to describe the main or primary purpose served by something, especially a process or system. For example, "The central function of the tax system is to generate revenue for the government."

✓ Grammatically correct

Science

News & Media

Encyclopedias

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

59 human-written examples

The trouble with that, of course, is that law-making is the central function of MPs.

The Guardian

It is a central function of a democracy to protect the rights of the oppressed and the disenfranchised.

The Guardian - Opinion

That decision, sadly, was an abdication of the agency's central function: ensuring no one in the financial world is beyond the law.

The Guardian - Business

Normally, a central function of adenosine is to inhibit the release of various chemicals into the brain, lowering energy levels and promoting sleep, among other regulatory bodily functions.

The New Yorker

Its real problem is that for decades now it has utterly failed in its central function, the whole purpose of its existence, namely to hold the government strictly and effectively to account.

The Guardian - Opinion

They address a central function of the Ivy League: the communication of a certain idea of American heritage, to which the campuses of Yale and Princeton, with their Gothic spires and soaring archways, are monuments.

The New Yorker

The investigation of crimes was not a central function of the early preventive police departments in England and the United States.

Encyclopedia Britannica

This is the central function of the state.

SEP

Within an IIP, the switch has the central function.

Journal of Systems Architecture

An essential central function within this management is performed by the quality management division.

Fusion Engineering and Design

In contrast, a central function of evidence is to make evident that which would not be so in its absence.

SEP

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "central function" when you want to highlight the most vital purpose something serves within a larger system or context.

Common error

Avoid using "central function" when describing a task or role that is merely important but not absolutely essential or defining. Use terms like "significant function" or "important role" instead.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "central function" primarily functions as a noun phrase. It identifies and describes the main or most important purpose of something. As Ludwig AI confirms, it is a correct and commonly used expression. The examples show it used across a variety of disciplines.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

Science

54%

News & Media

37%

Encyclopedias

5%

Less common in

Formal & Business

2%

Reference

1%

Social Media

1%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "central function" is a grammatically correct and very common noun phrase used to describe the primary purpose or role of something. As Ludwig AI confirms, the phrase is valid in written English. Predominantly found in scientific and news media contexts, it serves to clearly define the essential function of a process, system, or entity. When writing, ensure that "central function" accurately reflects the most important purpose and avoid using it for roles that are merely significant. Consider alternatives like "primary function" or "main function" for nuanced meaning.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

primary function

Replaces "central" with "primary", emphasizing the main role.

main function

Substitutes "central" with "main", indicating the key function.

key function

Replaces "central" with "key", highlighting the essential role.

core function

Substitutes "central" with "core", suggesting a fundamental aspect.

essential function

Replaces "central" with "essential", emphasizing necessity.

principal role

Replaces "function" with "role", shifting the focus slightly.

primary responsibility

Shifts from "function" to "responsibility", implying duty.

main objective

Focuses on the goal rather than the action.

chief purpose

Replaces "central function" with a focus on the main aim.

fundamental task

Emphasizes the basic nature of the work performed.

FAQs

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

Use "central function" to describe the primary purpose or role of something. For example, "The "central function" of the heart is to pump blood."

What are some alternatives to "central function"?

You can use alternatives like "primary function", "main function", or "key function" depending on the context.

Is it better to say "central function" or "primary function"?

"Central function" and "primary function" are often interchangeable, but "central" can imply a more integral or foundational role within a system.

What does it mean when something is described as having a "central function"?

It means that the entity being described has a main, essential, or defining purpose. This indicates it's crucial for the overall system or process it's a part of.