function as a ceiling

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "function as a ceiling" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe a limit or upper boundary in various contexts, such as economics, architecture, or metaphorical situations. Example: "The budget constraints will function as a ceiling on our project expenditures, preventing us from overspending."

✓ Grammatically correct

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

60 human-written examples

Let us first test our hypothesis that the Wikipedia entry point functions as a glass ceiling, making it more difficult for women to be included.

EPJ Data Science

If the Wikipedia entry indeed functions as a glass ceiling, we expect to see a larger gender gap for 'local heroes' than for 'superstars,' because fewer female local heroes would be able to overcome the glass ceiling.

EPJ Data Science

We hypothesize that if the entry point of Wikipedia functions as a glass ceiling, fewer women will be included in Wikipedia, but those women will be more notable than their male counterparts on average.

EPJ Data Science

Craig might not have as high a ceiling as, say, Pederson.

Los Angeles Times

Welfare functions in many ways as a ceiling.

TechCrunch

It says 2% is a symmetrical target but in practice it functions more like a ceiling.

The Economist

In the exhibition's major piece, you look up into a round structure suspended overhead and discover the concave, concrete basin of a municipal-park fountain inverted so that it functions as a grungy domed ceiling.

The New York Times

Floor and ceiling effects must also be evaluated when introducing new scores, as a ceiling effect makes it impossible to grade improvements after interventions.

Acta Orthopaedica

You may want a ceiling fan that has a light integrated into it, so that it can function as a light and a fan.

WikiHow

The sisters function as a harmonious unit.

The Guardian - Music

"We function as a nonprofit.

Los Angeles Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "function as a ceiling" when you want to emphasize that something is acting as an upper limit or constraint, especially in contexts where growth or expansion might otherwise be expected.

Common error

Avoid using "function as a ceiling" excessively in highly formal or academic writing. Opt for more precise or technical language, such as "establish an upper bound" or "act as a constraint", for greater clarity and impact.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "function as a ceiling" primarily serves as a predicative expression, describing how something operates or behaves in a limiting capacity. It indicates that a particular entity or factor acts as an upper boundary or constraint, preventing further growth or expansion. Ludwig AI confirms that the phrase is grammatically correct and usable.

Expression frequency: Missing

Frequent in

Science

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News & Media

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Formal & Business

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Less common in

Wiki

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Encyclopedias

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Reference

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Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "function as a ceiling" is a grammatically correct expression used to describe something acting as an upper limit or constraint. As determined by Ludwig AI, it is suitable for conveying the idea of a boundary that restricts growth or expansion. While the phrase itself is valid, Ludwig indicates that there are currently no exact examples available in its database. Therefore, while grammatically sound, it's essential to use it judiciously and consider context-specific alternatives to ensure clarity and appropriateness in your writing. Consider context-specific alternatives like "serve as a limit", "act as a constraint", or "operate as a boundary".

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

work as an upper limit

Specifically indicates the function as an upper boundary.

serve as a limit

Focuses on the limiting aspect, without necessarily implying an upper boundary.

act as a constraint

Emphasizes the restrictive nature of the function.

operate as a boundary

Highlights the role of defining a border or limit.

behave as a restriction

Implies a limitation on what is possible or allowed.

form an upper bound

Suggests a mathematical or statistical context where a maximum value is established.

cap

A shorter, more informal way to indicate an upper limit.

set the maximum

Emphasizes the action of establishing an upper limit.

define the upper threshold

Highlights the establishment of a specific threshold that cannot be exceeded.

limit

Simplest form, refers to placing a restriction.

FAQs

How can I use "function as a ceiling" in a sentence?

You can use "function as a ceiling" to describe something that limits growth or expansion. For example, "Budget constraints will function as a ceiling on our project expenditures".

What are some alternatives to "function as a ceiling"?

Alternatives include "serve as a limit", "act as a constraint", or "operate as a boundary", depending on the specific context.

Is it grammatically correct to say something "functions as a ceiling"?

Yes, it is grammatically correct. The phrase follows standard English grammar rules and is used to describe something acting as an upper limit.

In what contexts is it appropriate to use the phrase "function as a ceiling"?

It is suitable in contexts where you want to convey the idea of an upper limit or restriction, such as in discussions about budgets, performance metrics, or physical boundaries.