functions like

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "functions like" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe how something operates or behaves in a manner similar to another thing. Example: "In this experiment, the new material functions like a sponge, absorbing water efficiently."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Academia

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

"It functions like poetry".

The New York Times

"The entire cast functions like a family.

The New York Times

The union functions like a job centre.

The Guardian

Power pop often functions like a consolation prize.

The New York Times - Arts

Her complicated management system functions like an onion.

The Guardian - Music

Rose's fear of missing out functions like a sixth sense.

The New Yorker

Word 2001 -- surprise -- truly functions like a Macintosh program.

The New York Times - Tech

If so, it would prevent certain functions, like texting.

The New York Times - Tech

His very prose functions like an old, unidentified photograph.

The New Yorker

Inner Moscow functions like a typical central business district.

Britannica

Turf provides you with functions like calculating buffers and areas.

University of California, Berkeley

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "functions like" to clearly illustrate how an unfamiliar concept or system operates by comparing it to something more commonly understood. For example, "The app functions like a personal assistant, managing your schedule and tasks."

Common error

Avoid using "functions like" in overly general comparisons that don't provide specific insights. Instead of saying "The tool functions like other software," specify which features or operations are similar and why.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "functions like" serves as a comparative connector, linking a subject to a familiar concept to illustrate its operation or characteristics. As Ludwig AI confirms, this phrase is grammatically sound and widely accepted. Examples demonstrate its role in explaining complex systems through relatable analogies.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

53%

Science

25%

Academia

9%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

2%

Formal & Business

8%

Reference

3%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "functions like" is a versatile and grammatically correct construction used to draw comparisons and simplify complex concepts. As Ludwig AI confirms, it is widely accepted and frequently used across various domains, particularly in News & Media. While it maintains a neutral register suitable for broad audiences, more formal or scientific contexts might benefit from alternatives like "operates similarly to". When using "functions like", ensure the comparison is specific and insightful to maximize clarity and avoid vagueness.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

operates similarly to

Focuses on the operational similarity between two things.

works in a similar fashion to

Emphasizes the manner in which something performs its task.

behaves like

Highlights the behavioral similarities.

serves the same purpose as

Focuses on the shared purpose or goal.

is analogous to

Indicates a parallel or comparable relationship.

is akin to

Implies a close resemblance or similarity.

mirrors the function of

Suggests a direct replication of functionality.

performs in the manner of

Highlights the way in which a task is executed.

fulfills a role similar to

Emphasizes the part played or the responsibility undertaken.

acts as a substitute for

Indicates a replacement or alternative functionality.

FAQs

How can I use "functions like" in a sentence?

Use "functions like" to describe how something operates or behaves in a way that is similar to something else. For instance, "This system "functions like" a well-oiled machine."

What are some alternatives to "functions like"?

Alternatives include phrases such as "operates as", "behaves like", or "works as", depending on the specific context.

Is it correct to say "function as" instead of "functions like"?

While "function as" is also correct, "functions like" is used to draw a comparison, whereas "function as" describes the actual role or purpose something serves.

How does the formality of "functions like" compare to other similar phrases?

"Functions like" is generally considered neutral in formality and is suitable for a wide range of contexts. More formal alternatives might include "operates similarly to".