double as

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "double as" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to indicate that something serves two purposes or functions simultaneously. Example: "The spare room can double as an office when needed."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Encyclopedias

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

55 human-written examples

The cast will double as servers.

The New York Times

Fire extinguishers don't double as flamethrowers.

The New York Times

Some team owners double as GMs.

Forbes

It's a shelfs that double as a balance.

TechCrunch

Tetris boxes, which double as climbing objects for cats.

Vice

Others double as vases.

The New York Times - Food

They double as credit cards.

The New York Times

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

4 human-written examples

Doubles as low as $85.

The New York Times - Travel

They really weren't doubling as much.

The New York Times - Sports

Double just as well.

The Guardian - Sport

(Brown doubled as thereminist).

The New Yorker

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "double as", ensure the primary and secondary functions are clearly defined and easily understood in the context.

Common error

Don't assume the reader understands the secondary function. Clearly state both functions to avoid confusion.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "double as" functions as a verb phrase indicating that something serves an additional or secondary purpose beyond its primary function. Ludwig confirms this by providing examples where items or people take on a second role.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

77%

Wiki

11%

Encyclopedias

2%

Less common in

Formal & Business

1%

Science

9%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "double as" is a common and versatile verb phrase used to describe something that performs a secondary function in addition to its primary one. Ludwig AI confirms its grammatical correctness and provides numerous examples of its use in varied contexts, predominantly in news and media. When writing, ensure clarity by explicitly stating both the primary and secondary functions to avoid ambiguity. Alternatives such as "serve as" or "function as" can be used, depending on the specific nuance you wish to convey. The phrase is appropriate for neutral to formal writing. It is important to consider the dual functions in order to ensure clarity in the communication.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

serve as

This alternative is a more general term for fulfilling a role or function.

function as

This alternative emphasizes the operational aspect of performing a role.

act as

This alternative focuses on the action of performing a duty or role.

work as

This alternative suggests a practical or applied function.

also be used as

This alternative clarifies that there is an additional use beyond the primary one.

perform the function of

This alternative is a more formal way of describing the role something fulfills.

play the role of

This alternative highlights the aspect of assuming a specific role.

have a dual role

This alternative emphasizes the existence of two distinct functions.

fulfill a secondary purpose

This alternative pinpoints the supplemental nature of the function.

can also be considered

This alternative offers an additional perspective on the item's function.

FAQs

How to use "double as" in a sentence?

Use "double as" to describe something that has a primary function but can also be used for another purpose. For example, "This sofa can "double as" a bed".

What can I say instead of "double as"?

You can use alternatives like "serve as", "function as", or "act as" to convey a similar meaning.

Which is correct, "double as" or "double up as"?

"Double as" is more concise and commonly used. "Double up as" is also acceptable, but less frequent. Both phrases mean the same thing.

What's the difference between "double as" and "serve as"?

"Serve as" indicates a primary or intended function, while "double as" implies a secondary or additional function. For example, a principal "serves as" the school's leader, while the gymnasium might "double as" an event space.