functions

USAGE SUMMARY

"functions" is a correct and usable word in written English.
You can use it as a noun, verb, or adjective. Example: The functions of the new computer system make it easier to complete daily tasks.

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Wiki

Tech

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

I will continue to exercise my functions as Fifa president until that election".

The Guardian - Sport

But, if it was not designed with lucrative corporate functions in mind, would it need to be quite so dominant?

The Guardian - Arts

Exercise also helps you sleep better, and helps regulate your appetite, two functions that are very much affected by high levels of stress.

The Guardian - Lifestyle

Cameras with remote zoom functions, though, probably would, as would cameras used by businesses or individuals for private security purposes.

The Guardian - Opinion

Despite internal Pentagon criticism, it continues to carry out intelligence functions.

The Guardian

CarPlay is a more advanced way to connect an iPhone to a car's entertainment and information systems, allowing access to a variety of the smartphone's functions including music, messaging and navigation.

The Guardian - Tech

Agreed in 2000, the declaration states that, when framing laws, the EC "must take account of the social, educational and cultural functions inherent in sport" to preserve its unique role in modern communities.

The Guardian - Sport

The fall-back alternative was the corporate assembly model, under which assembly members would be responsible for all executive functions of Northern Ireland departments by way of key vote approval.

The Guardian

SOH! CAH TOAA! So, to recap - the three main trig functions express the ratios of the sides of triangles like this: sin θ = opposite/hypotenuse cos θ = adjacent/hypotenuse tan θ = opposite/adjacent.

WikiHow

At one point, I ask Maillot whether his ballet school functions as a feeder for the Monte Carlo company, and his response is a fierce polemic.

The Guardian

More than half the studies were related to psychiatric, metabolic and cognitive functions, including rates of depression, anxiety, mental and behavioural disorders related to use of alcohol and tobacco, weight and height.

The Guardian

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "functions" in technical writing, be specific about which functions you are describing to avoid ambiguity. For example, instead of saying "the system has many functions", specify "the system has functions for data encryption, user authentication, and error logging".

Common error

Avoid using "functions" and "functionalities" interchangeably. "Functions" refers to specific operations or tasks something performs, while "functionalities" refers to the broader set of features or capabilities available. Use "functions" when discussing specific actions, and "functionalities" when discussing the overall feature set.

Linguistic Context

The primary grammatical function of "functions" is as a noun, typically used in the plural form. It refers to the specific actions, tasks, or duties performed by something or someone. As per Ludwig AI, the word is correct and usable in written English.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

64%

Wiki

16%

Tech

6%

Less common in

Science

4%

Formal & Business

4%

Arts

2%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The word "functions" is a versatile noun widely used to describe the actions, roles, or purposes of something. According to Ludwig AI, it is a correct and usable word in written English. It is commonly found in various contexts, including news, media, and technical writing. While synonyms like "roles", "purposes", and "operations" can be used, it's important to use "functions" when referring to specific actions rather than broader features. Remember to be specific when describing "functions" in technical contexts, and avoid confusing it with "functionalities". Its high frequency and authoritative sources validate its broad applicability and importance in the English language.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

roles

This term is a more specific way to refer to the duties or responsibilities associated with a particular position or entity.

purposes

This alternative emphasizes the intended goals or aims of something, rather than its operational aspects.

operations

This term highlights the processes or activities involved in achieving a particular outcome.

activities

This is a broad term that encompasses the various actions or tasks performed by an individual or organization.

responsibilities

This alternative focuses on the obligations or accountabilities associated with a particular role or function.

tasks

This term refers to the specific duties or assignments that need to be completed.

duties

Similar to responsibilities, this alternative emphasizes the obligations or requirements of a particular position.

processes

This term highlights the steps or procedures involved in carrying out a particular function.

mechanisms

This alternative emphasizes the underlying systems or structures that enable something to operate effectively.

workings

This term describes how something operates or functions in practice.

FAQs

How can I use "functions" in a sentence?

You can use "functions" to refer to the specific actions or tasks that something performs. For example, "The operating system has many important "functions" such as memory management and process scheduling".

What are some synonyms for "functions"?

Depending on the context, you can use synonyms like "roles", "purposes", "operations", or "activities" instead of "functions".

What is the difference between "functions" and "functionalities"?

"Functions" refer to specific actions or tasks that something performs, while "functionalities" refer to the set of features or capabilities available. Think of "functions" as individual actions and "functionalities" as a collection of those actions.

Is it correct to say "the functions of the body" or should I use another word?

It is perfectly correct to say "the functions of the body". This phrase is commonly used to describe the physiological processes and activities that the body performs to maintain life and health. However, you could also use alternatives like "processes" or "operations".