function

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "function" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used in various contexts, such as programming, mathematics, or when discussing the role or purpose of something. Example: "The function of this software is to streamline project management and improve team collaboration."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Wiki

Science

Formal & Business

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

"A body's function is far more intricate and important than looking 'beach ready', so in fact it is Protein World who have confused their priorities, if anyone".

The Guardian

In December 2014, the company rolled out improvements to its blocking function, and began letting users report abuse directed at others, as well as themselves.

The Guardian - Tech

Mirabella has locked media representatives out of her election night function in the electorate.

The Guardian

How that will function in the heat and humidity of Cuiaba is an issue that appears not to worry the manager.

The Guardian - Sport

The book, then has double function: a tribute to her and part of grief's ­unending work for him.

The Guardian - Books

A trust spokesman said: "The trust continues to function fully and effectively, and the people of north-east Essex can be assured that we are here for them and they can help by using our emergency department [A&E] only if they have a serious or life-threatening condition.

The Guardian

But if that primitive resonance is not achieved, storytellers are failing to fulfil what is perhaps their primary function, which is therapeutic – to act as an echo chamber to our deepest fears and desires, and thus help to integrate them into a healthy personality.

The Guardian - Lifestyle

The Australia Council Act 2013 says a minister is "unable to give direction in relation to the making of a decision by the council, in a particular case, in relation to the provision of support" but the minister does have the power to direct the council in relation to performance of function and exercise of powers.

The Guardian

It would be subject to regulation by the Charities Commission to ensure it was meeting its purposes, and its decisions and function could be challenged in the courts.

The Guardian

When I spoke to parents of children with special needs, several wondered if the higher Ofsted grades were a function of less rigorous expectations on special schools.

The Guardian

To him, it seemed that tax avoidance and tax havens were a real impediment to allowing developing countries to function properly, and also a moral issue for companies in the developed world; for the Jersey-born Christensen, paying a fair amount of tax was the duty of any good citizen.

The Guardian - Business

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When describing the purpose of a system or component, use "function" to clearly convey its intended role or operation. For example, "The main function of the heart is to pump blood."

Common error

Avoid prioritizing form over function when discussing design or systems. Ensure that the design supports the intended function effectively. Do not let aesthetics compromise usability or performance.

Linguistic Context

The word "function" serves as both a noun and a verb. As a noun, it describes the purpose, role, or activity of something. As a verb, it signifies performing or operating. Ludwig AI's analysis confirms its versatile application across numerous contexts.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

37%

Wiki

20%

Science

21%

Less common in

Formal & Business

10%

Encyclopedias

0%

Social Media

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The term "function" is a versatile word used as both a noun and a verb, indicating purpose, role, or operation. As confirmed by Ludwig AI, it is grammatically correct and very common, with applications spanning news, scientific, and formal contexts. When writing, ensure you prioritize the actual function over mere form. The frequency analysis shows it’s frequently found in news and media, as well as scientific sources. To enhance clarity, consider using synonyms like "purpose", "role", or "operation" depending on the intended meaning.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

functioning

Focuses on the state of being in operation or working order.

purpose

Focuses on the intended result or aim of something.

role

Emphasizes the part something plays in a larger system or context.

operation

Highlights the way something works or is used.

task

Refers to a specific duty or activity.

duty

Implies a moral or legal obligation.

responsibility

Denotes accountability for a specific action or outcome.

capacity

Refers to the ability to perform a specific action or service.

mechanism

Highlights the system or process by which something operates.

utility

Emphasizes the usefulness or practical value of something.

FAQs

How to use "function" in a sentence?

The word "function" can be used as a noun to describe the purpose of something, or as a verb to describe how something operates. For example, "The primary function of this tool is to simplify the process", or "The device needs to function correctly to ensure accurate data collection".

What can I say instead of "function"?

You can use alternatives like "purpose", "role", or "operation" depending on the context.

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

"Function of" typically refers to the intended purpose, while "functioning of" refers to the actual operation. For example, "The function of the software is data analysis", versus "The proper functioning of the engine is crucial for safety".

What's the difference between "function" and "feature"?

A "function" is a basic capability or purpose, while a "feature" is a specific implementation or aspect of that function. A car's basic function is transportation, while a specific feature might be its automatic parking system.