chief function of

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "chief function of" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe the primary role or purpose of something in a formal or academic context. Example: "The chief function of the heart is to pump blood throughout the body."

✓ Grammatically correct

Encyclopedias

News & Media

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

20 human-written examples

This is the chief function of the union's quinquennial congress.

Britannica

The chief function of a watch, you might assume, is to tell the time, accurately.

The New York Times - Magazine

"The chief function of the body is to carry the brain around". — Thomas Edison.

Yale University

The prevention of oral disease through education and treatment is the chief function of hygienists.

Britannica

The chief function of the ancient Arabic poet was to compose satire (hijāʾ) against the tribal enemy.

Encyclopedia Britannica

When you really think about it, the chief function of the FastForward is to reduce the cellular minutes you use up.

The New York Times - Tech

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

40 human-written examples

One of the chief functions of top executives is to discover new opportunities for those capabilities.

Harvard Business Review

One of the chief functions of the new government will probably be negotiating the terms of union with West Germany.

The New York Times

Of course, one of the chief functions of most trust companies is simply managing the investment portfolios within the trusts of their clients.

Forbes

In fact, one of the chief functions of religion, in its constructive form, is to regulate and harmonize human relations.

Huffington Post

Surveillance of Falun Gong practitioners and intelligence collection is among the chief functions of 610 Offices.

Wikipedia

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "chief function of", ensure that you are indeed referring to the most important or primary role, not just a significant one. Consider whether "primary", "main", or "principal" might be more appropriate if there are multiple important functions.

Common error

Avoid using "chief function of" when describing a secondary or less significant function. This can mislead readers into thinking it's the most crucial aspect. Ensure the described function truly is the most important.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "chief function of" primarily serves as a descriptor, indicating the main or most important purpose or role of something. Ludwig AI confirms its grammatical correctness and usability in various contexts.

Expression frequency: Uncommon

Frequent in

Encyclopedias

30%

News & Media

30%

Science

25%

Less common in

Academia

5%

Wiki

5%

Formal & Business

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "chief function of" is a grammatically sound and useful expression for specifying the primary role or purpose of something. As Ludwig AI explains, it's well-regarded and suitable for formal and academic contexts. While alternatives such as "main function of" or "primary role of" exist, "chief function of" effectively conveys the most critical aspect of a subject. Usage patterns indicate it's commonly found in encyclopedias, news media, and scientific literature, underlining its versatility and importance in defining essential functions.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

main function of

Replaces "chief" with "main", indicating the primary but not necessarily exclusive function.

primary role of

Substitutes "function" with "role", focusing on the part someone or something plays.

principal function of

Replaces "chief" with "principal", emphasizing the most important function.

key role of

Similar to "primary role", but highlights the significance of the role.

central purpose of

Shifts focus to the aim or intention rather than the function.

fundamental role of

Indicates that the role is foundational or essential.

core function of

Highlights the essential or most important function.

primary task of

Emphasizes the work or duty to be done.

essential purpose of

Focuses on why something is necessary or indispensable.

defining characteristic of

Shifts the emphasis from function to a characteristic that defines something.

FAQs

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

Use "chief function of" to specify the primary purpose or role of something. For example, "The "chief function of" the heart is to circulate blood".

What is a good substitute for "chief function of"?

Alternatives include "main purpose of", "primary role of", or "principal function of". Choose the one that best fits the context and maintains the intended meaning.

Is it redundant to say "main chief function of"?

Yes, it is redundant. "Chief" already implies the main or most important function, so using "main" in addition is unnecessary and weakens the writing. Just use either ""chief function of"" or "main function of".

What's the difference between "chief function of" and "a function of"?

"Chief function of" refers to the primary or most important purpose, whereas "a function of" simply indicates one of several possible roles or purposes.