function according to

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "function according to" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when describing how something operates or behaves based on certain rules, guidelines, or conditions. Example: "The software will function according to the parameters set by the user."

✓ Grammatically correct

Science

News & Media

Formal & Business

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

59 human-written examples

The groups' national headquarters allow the local chapters to function according to their "local variety".

The New Yorker

"Since, at their root, revolutions always function according to the same model, many things simply coincide".

The New Yorker

"There's a strong relationship between unemployment and low sexual function, according to the literature," she said.

The Guardian

Hearing loss can also impair memory and cognitive function, according to a study by neuroscientists at Brandeis University.

The New York Times - Health

So that sometimes the same mechanisms would be there, and sometimes the two would function according to entirely different systems.

The New Yorker

These faux classical ruins, called follies, eventually evolved to become real buildings, but without any practical function, according to Kevin Wilkes, an architect with Princeton Design Guild.

The New York Times

Each of the city gates was assigned a particular function, according to the kind of traffic that was permitted to enter through it.

The Guardian

The loss of motor function, according to many of the stroke patients with whom I spoke, is akin to a kind of bereavement.

The New Yorker

Compute the objective function according to (2).

EURASIP Journal on Advances in Signal Processing

Systems engineering aims to produce reliable systems which function according to specification.

Computer Methods and Programs in Biomedicine

Societies and economies don't change like machines that function according to known laws.

BBC

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "function according to", ensure that the specific rules, standards, or guidelines being followed are clearly identified to provide context and clarity.

Common error

Avoid using "function according to" without specifying what it's functioning according to. For example, instead of saying "The system functions according to plan", specify whose plan it is or what the plan entails for greater clarity.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "function according to" primarily serves as a verb phrase indicating how something operates or behaves in relation to a specific set of rules, standards, or guidelines. It's often used to describe processes, systems, or even behaviors that adhere to a predetermined framework, as Ludwig shows.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

Science

41%

News & Media

40%

Formal & Business

10%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

2%

Reference

2%

Social Media

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "function according to" is a commonly used verb phrase indicating adherence to specific rules, standards, or guidelines. Ludwig's AI confirms its grammatical correctness and usability across various contexts. It is most frequently found in scientific and news media contexts, with a neutral to formal register. When using this phrase, ensure that the specific parameters are clearly identified to enhance clarity. Consider alternatives such as "operate in accordance with" or "work as designed" depending on the desired emphasis. Be aware of the importance of specifying the guiding principles to avoid vagueness.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

operate in accordance with

Replaces "function" with "operate" and uses "in accordance with" to emphasize compliance with rules or standards.

work as designed

Focuses on the intended design and operational parameters of a system or process.

perform as specified

Highlights the performance aspect of functioning, emphasizing adherence to specifications.

behave as expected

Emphasizes the anticipated behavior or outcome based on certain conditions or guidelines.

run as planned

Implies that a system or process is operating according to a predetermined plan or schedule.

comply with the guidelines

Shifts the focus to compliance, indicating adherence to established guidelines or regulations.

act in compliance with

Similar to "comply with the guidelines", but with a stronger emphasis on the act of compliance.

follow the rules

Simplifies the concept to the basic act of adhering to a set of rules or instructions.

adhere to the protocol

Highlights adherence to a specific protocol or set of procedures.

align with the standards

Indicates that something is in alignment with established standards or benchmarks.

FAQs

How can I use "function according to" in a sentence?

You can use "function according to" to describe how something operates based on specific rules or guidelines. For example, "The device will function according to the user's settings".

What are some alternatives to "function according to"?

Alternatives include "operate in accordance with", "work as designed", or "perform as specified", depending on the context.

Is it better to say "function according to" or "functions under"?

"Function according to" emphasizes adherence to a set of rules or guidelines, while "functions under" implies being subject to certain conditions or constraints. The better choice depends on the specific nuance you want to convey.

What is the difference between "function according to" and "comply with"?

"Function according to" implies an operational mode guided by specific parameters. "Comply with", on the other hand, focuses specifically on adhering to rules or regulations. You'd "function according to" a design, but "comply with" a law.