dual functions

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "dual functions" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe something that serves two distinct purposes or roles simultaneously. Example: "The new software has dual functions, allowing users to edit documents and collaborate in real-time."

✓ Grammatically correct

Science

News & Media

Academia

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

Venom has dual functions: offensive and defensive.

Encyclopedia Britannica

Third, the dual functions of α-1,3-glucan have been emphasized.

Nature

Wu, H. et al. Dual functions of Tet1 in transcriptional regulation in mouse embryonic stem cells.

Nature

Exploitation of these dual functions could lead to novel colon cancer therapies that mimic RACK1 function.

Stanford University

Through these dual functions, cells can activate p62 and induce selective autophagy upon the accumulation of autophagic cargoes.

Nature

Cai, C. et al. Lysine-specific demethylase 1 has dual functions as a major regulator of androgen receptor transcriptional activity.

Nature

In some cases, the NF-κB responsive genes may serve dual functions in cell survival and plasticity.

Nature

Conner, E.A. et al. Dual functions of E2F-1 in a transgenic mouse model of liver carcinogenesis.

Nature

We propose that dual functions of Ddr integrate transcriptional inputs to coordinate subcellular processes underlying collective polarity and migration.

Nature

For George Rooks, the Rose Classic has served dual functions: one competitive, one cultural.

The New York Times - Sports

The academic authorities do too, having served the dual functions of providing narrative exposition and demonstrating the high-minded uselessness of official liberal discourse.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When describing a feature or component, clearly articulate both functions to avoid ambiguity. For instance, instead of just saying "it has dual functions", specify what those functions are, like "it has dual functions: heating and cooling".

Common error

Avoid using "dual functions" without providing specific details. Saying something has "dual functions" without specifying them leaves the reader wondering what those functions actually are.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "dual functions" primarily functions as a modifier, often used to describe nouns or concepts that possess two distinct roles or purposes. As Ludwig AI indicates, it is grammatically correct and commonly used. For instance, the examples show it describing roles in biology, technology, and even sports.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

Science

55%

Academia

20%

News & Media

15%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

5%

Formal & Business

5%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "dual functions" is a grammatically correct and widely used phrase, as Ludwig AI confirms. It describes something that serves two distinct purposes, commonly found in scientific, academic, and news contexts. When using "dual functions", ensure you specify what those functions are to avoid ambiguity. For alternatives, consider "twofold roles" or "bifunctional capabilities" for a more formal tone, or "double duty" for a more informal feel. As shown by the examples, the term is used across various fields, highlighting its versatility and importance in clearly communicating the purpose of a subject.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

dual roles

This alternative is nearly synonymous but uses "roles" instead of "functions".

twofold functions

This alternative emphasizes the two aspects of the function more explicitly.

bifunctional capabilities

This alternative is more technical and emphasizes the capabilities.

combined functions

This option emphasizes the merging of two distinct functions.

double duty

This phrase is more informal and suggests that something is performing two tasks.

hybrid functions

Suggests a blending of different functions into one.

multiple roles

This phrase broadens the scope to include more than just two functions.

multi-purpose capabilities

Similar to "multiple roles" but emphasizes the ability to perform various tasks.

secondary functions

Implies a primary function with an additional, less important one.

two-pronged approach

This is more about strategy than inherent function, but still implies two purposes.

FAQs

How can I use "dual functions" in a sentence?

You can use "dual functions" to describe something that serves two purposes. For example, "This tool has "dual functions", acting as both a hammer and a screwdriver".

What's a more formal alternative to "dual functions"?

For a more formal tone, consider using phrases like "bifunctional capabilities" or "twofold roles".

Is it correct to say something has 'dual function' instead of "dual functions"?

While "dual function" might be understood, ""dual functions"" is grammatically more accurate because you're referring to more than one function.

What is the difference between "dual functions" and "multiple functions"?

"Dual functions" specifically means two functions, whereas "multiple functions" implies more than two.