executive function

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "executive function" is correct and usable in written English.
It is used to refer to the cognitive processes that are involved in planning, organizing, and managing one's actions and thoughts. For example, "The team has difficulty maintaining focus and completing tasks due to a lack of executive function."

✓ Grammatically correct

Academia

News & Media

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

Oh yeah, executive function.

Harvard University

What Is Executive Function?

Harvard University

Loss of executive function, Goldstein said.

The New York Times - Magazine

These people have compromised executive function.

The New Yorker

Multimedia: What Is Executive Function?

Harvard University

And that is an inherently executive function.

The New Yorker

Executive function involves three important skills.

The New York Times - Health

Executive function deficits in acute stroke.

Archives of Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation

What about executive function and self-regulation?

The Washington Post

So what counts as "executive function"?

Harvard University

And they tell me it executive function.

Harvard University

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When discussing "executive function", be specific about which aspects you are referring to, such as planning, working memory, or impulse control.

Common error

Avoid attributing all cognitive or behavioral difficulties solely to problems with "executive function". Consider other contributing factors like emotional state, environmental influences, or other cognitive skills.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "executive function" primarily functions as a noun phrase referring to a set of cognitive processes that are essential for goal-directed behavior and self-regulation. Ludwig shows examples across various domains, highlighting its widespread use in discussions about cognitive abilities.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

Science

33%

News & Media

33%

Academia

33%

Less common in

Formal & Business

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Wiki

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "executive function" is a commonly used noun phrase referring to higher-level cognitive processes essential for planning, organizing, and self-regulation. As Ludwig AI confirms, the phrase is grammatically correct and widely used across diverse fields, particularly academia, news media, and scientific research. The authoritative sources and numerous examples available underscore its importance in discussions related to cognitive abilities and mental health. When using the phrase, it's best to be specific about the aspects of "executive function" you are referring to and to avoid overgeneralizing its impact on behavior.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

cognitive control

Focuses more on the control aspect of cognitive processes.

cognitive flexibility

Emphasizes the ability to adapt to changing situations.

self-regulation skills

Highlights the ability to manage one's own behavior and emotions.

goal-directed behavior

Stresses the focus on achieving specific objectives.

metacognitive abilities

Refers to the awareness and understanding of one's own thought processes.

supervisory attentional system

A more technical term for the cognitive system that controls attention.

cognitive management

Highlights the broader management of cognitive resources.

behavioral regulation

Emphasizes the control of actions and impulses.

impulse control

Focuses specifically on the ability to resist urges.

working memory capacity

Refers to the ability to hold and manipulate information in mind.

FAQs

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

You can use "executive function" to describe cognitive processes. For example: "Difficulties with "executive function" can impact a child's ability to focus in school".

What are some skills related to "executive function"?

Skills related to "executive function" include "planning", "working memory", and "impulse control".

Which is correct, "executive function" or "executive functioning"?

"Executive function" is generally preferred as a noun phrase referring to the cognitive processes themselves. "Executive functioning" can be used but is less common.

How does ADHD relate to "executive function"?

"Executive function" deficits are often observed in individuals with ADHD, impacting their ability to manage attention, plan, and control impulses.