Used and loved by millions
Since I tried Ludwig back in 2017, I have been constantly using it in both editing and translation. Ever since, I suggest it to my translators at ProSciEditing.

Justyna Jupowicz-Kozak
CEO of Professional Science Editing for Scientists @ prosciediting.com
external functions
Grammar usage guide and real-world examplesUSAGE SUMMARY
The phrase "external functions" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used in contexts related to programming, mathematics, or any field where functions are defined outside of a primary system or module. Example: "The software allows users to integrate external functions to enhance its capabilities."
✓ Grammatically correct
Science
News & Media
Formal & Business
Alternative expressions(3)
Table of contents
Usage summary
Human-verified examples
Expert writing tips
Linguistic context
Ludwig's wrap-up
Alternative expressions
FAQs
Human-verified examples from authoritative sources
Exact Expressions
12 human-written examples
External functions have been used for nondeterministic behaviours mentioned.
We consider a non-linear oscillator simultaneously excited by parametric and external functions.
Sparacino also likes Hyperion Solutions and Business Objects, two companies that make software to help businesses track and analyze their internal and external functions.
News & Media
A balanced performance measurement of SCM helps organizations to improve their internal and external functions of business and create more value for their stakeholders.
Service description, process, and policies may even be created by different people or by different intelligent systems, regardless of the actual services that will implement the external functions.
The proposed language aims to support run-time parser FU generation by describing three types of information: control flow, external functions, and parser interfaces.
Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources
Similar Expressions
48 human-written examples
external function TrainRequestID: Train → AntennaName.
external function Train_InitSituation: Train → AntennaName.
The minimum of the External Function does not coincide with the unstressed state.
Science
Thus, the FGCP algorithm dopts an external function β to handle the difficulty for new calls to be accepted.
A model of the alternative set theory in the usual set theory is a nonstandard model of Vω of size ω1 in which every countable external function extends to a function in the model.
Science
Expert writing Tips
Best practice
When using "external functions" in technical documentation, clearly define the scope and purpose of these functions to avoid ambiguity. Use cases and examples will make your point.
Common error
Avoid using "external functions" without specifying their origin or purpose. A vague reference can lead to confusion and hinder understanding. Make it clear that they are indeed functions that resides outside the main code/logic/project, and what exactly they do.
Source & Trust
82%
Authority and reliability
4.5/5
Expert rating
Real-world application tested
Linguistic Context
The phrase "external functions" primarily serves as a noun phrase, often functioning as the subject or object of a sentence. Ludwig indicates that it commonly appears in technical and business contexts to describe functionalities originating outside a core system.
Frequent in
Science
70%
News & Media
15%
Formal & Business
15%
Less common in
Encyclopedias
0%
Wiki
0%
Reference
0%
Ludwig's WRAP-UP
In summary, "external functions" is a grammatically sound and commonly used phrase, particularly in scientific, news, and formal business contexts. As Ludwig highlights, this phrase serves to define functionalities integrated from outside a core system, requiring clear definition to prevent ambiguity. Alternative phrases like "outside functions" or "third-party functions" may be suitable depending on the specific context. It is important to define their scope to prevent confusion.
More alternative expressions(10)
Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:
outside functions
Replaces "external" with a synonym, focusing on the location of the functions.
external routines
Substitutes "functions" with "routines", a common term in programming.
external capabilities
Replaces "functions" with "capabilities", highlighting the functions' abilities.
third-party functions
Specifies that the functions come from an outside source or provider.
add-on functions
Implies that the functions are supplemental and not part of the core system.
external operational modes
Changes "functions" to "operational modes", focusing on how the system operates externally.
external processes
Replaces "functions" with "processes", emphasizing the actions performed.
external features
Substitutes "functions" with "features", highlighting their role as distinct system components.
external operations
Replaces "functions" with "operations", focusing on the actions performed.
external modules
Emphasizes that these functions are part of distinct modules separate from the core system.
FAQs
How can I use "external functions" in a sentence?
You might say, "The software allows users to integrate external functions to enhance its capabilities", or "The system relies on external functions for data processing".
What's an alternative to using "external functions"?
Depending on the context, you could use alternatives like "outside functions", "third-party functions", or even more descriptive phrases like "add-on capabilities".
What is the difference between "internal functions" and "external functions"?
"Internal functions" are defined within a system, while external functions are defined outside and integrated into the system. "Internal functions" are self-contained, whereas external functions rely on external libraries or modules.
When should I use the term "external functions"?
Use "external functions" when referring to functions that are not part of the core system or application but are used to extend or enhance its functionality. If a functions is internal to the project, don't use external functions.
Editing plus AI, all in one place.
Stop switching between tools. Your AI writing partner for everything—polishing proposals, crafting emails, finding the right tone.
Table of contents
Usage summary
Human-verified examples
Expert writing tips
Linguistic context
Ludwig's wrap-up
Alternative expressions
FAQs
Source & Trust
82%
Authority and reliability
4.5/5
Expert rating
Real-world application tested