functioning in tandem

USAGE SUMMARY

"functioning in tandem" is correct and usable in written English. You can use it to describe two or more entities working together simultaneously or in coordination. For example: "The two departments are functioning in tandem to achieve the project goals." Alternative expressions include "working together" and "operating in sync."

✓ Grammatically correct

Science

News & Media

Formal & Business

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

2 human-written examples

Functioning in tandem, the kidney and heart provide the physiological regulation of extracellular fluid volume, sodium homeostasis, blood pressure, cardiac output and glomerular filtration rate (GFR).

Plosone

Beyond functioning in tandem with miR-132, which will be discussed in greater detail below, miR-212 has also been shown to independently decrease glial cell proliferation [ 65].

BMC Genomics

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

58 human-written examples

In some species the ears are immobile, but in all cases they probably function in tandem for directional analysis.

Encyclopedia Britannica

Many of these genomic and epigenetic events function in tandem to drive tumor development and metastasis.

The American Journal of Pathology

Therefore, it is desirable to identify novel pathways of cell death, which could function in tandem with or in the absence of efficient apoptotic machinery.

Plosone

In this study, we have shown that constitutive active MEK/ERK signaling, owing to BRAF mutation, may function in tandem with EGFR signaling.

Plosone

Therefore, there has been a surge of activity around identification of novel pathways of cell death, which could function in tandem with or in the absence of efficient apoptotic machinery.

Plosone

Aspartate aminotransferase (AAT) functions in tandem with malate dehydrogenase to transfer electrons from NADH across the inner mitochondrial membrane.

Breast Cancer Research

Oxamate also inhibits aspartate aminotransferase (AAT), which functions in tandem with malate dehydrogenase to form the malate-aspartate NADH shuttle.

Breast Cancer Research

These enzymes could function in tandem as a pathway to produce the final metabolite excreted in urine and/or feces [ 41].

BMC Ecology

It's one of the best on-board examples of how the touch and voice functions work in tandem.

TechCrunch

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "functioning in tandem" to clearly indicate that two or more components or entities are operating together to achieve a common goal. It emphasizes coordinated and simultaneous action.

Common error

Avoid using "functioning in tandem" when you simply mean 'working together' in a general sense. The phrase specifically implies a designed or necessary coordination, not just any form of cooperation.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "functioning in tandem" acts as a descriptive element, often an adjective phrase modifying a noun or pronoun. It indicates a state of coordinated or simultaneous operation. As Ludwig AI confirms, this phrase is suitable for describing entities working together in a synchronized manner.

Expression frequency: Uncommon

Frequent in

Science

50%

News & Media

25%

Formal & Business

25%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

0%

Wiki

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "functioning in tandem" is a descriptive phrase that indicates coordinated, synchronized action between two or more entities. Grammatically correct and primarily used in scientific, professional, and news contexts, it emphasizes interdependence. While not extremely common, as shown by the examples provided by Ludwig, the phrase is well-understood and carries a specific connotation of designed coordination. When using it, ensure that the entities are indeed operating in a synchronized and interdependent manner, rather than just generally working together. Ludwig AI confirms its correctness and usability in written English, highlighting its role in describing coordinated activity. Consider alternatives like "operating jointly" or "acting in coordination" to achieve specific nuances in meaning.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

operating jointly

This alternative emphasizes the combined action of separate entities.

working collaboratively

This phrase highlights the cooperative aspect of the action.

acting in coordination

This alternative focuses on the organized and synchronized nature of the activity.

performing in unison

This suggests a perfect synchronization, like musical performance.

acting synergistically

This emphasizes the combined effect being greater than the sum of individual efforts.

cooperating effectively

Highlights the efficiency and success of the collaborative effort.

interdependent operation

This highlights that operation relies on each other.

unified action

This suggests a single, cohesive action.

synchronized activity

This emphasizes the timing and alignment of the actions.

harmonious function

Emphasizes the smooth and balanced way different parts work together.

FAQs

How can I use "functioning in tandem" in a sentence?

Use "functioning in tandem" to describe situations where two or more things operate together, like "The heart and lungs are functioning in tandem to provide oxygen to the body."

What are some alternatives to "functioning in tandem"?

Alternatives include "operating jointly", "working collaboratively", or "acting in coordination", depending on the specific context.

Is it better to use "functioning in tandem" or "working together"?

"Functioning in tandem" implies a more synchronized and interdependent relationship than simply "working together". Use "functioning in tandem" when the coordinated action is crucial.

What's the difference between "functioning in tandem" and "functioning independently"?

"Functioning in tandem" means operating together in a coordinated way, while "functioning independently" means operating separately and without coordination.