generally function

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "generally function" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe the typical operation or behavior of something in a broad sense. Example: "In most cases, these devices generally function as intended, providing reliable performance."

✓ Grammatically correct

Science

News & Media

Encyclopedias

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

48 human-written examples

Although our functionality metric differences imply that genes with undetectable CNSs generally function, it is more rigorous to test directly to see if the loss of CNSs is somehow correlated with the loss of gene function.

Genome Biology and Evolution

Serum starvation is a general model for investigating the molecular mechanisms underlying apoptosis and autophagy, which generally function as defense strategies when cells are under oxygen and nutrient stress [ 42, 43].

BMC Cancer

Family physicians generally function as the first respondent for any medical issue, and they also generate the bulk of referrals to specialists.

BMJ Open

Boccaccio's characters generally function in a psychologically convincing way, although their psychologies are implied through action rather than made explicit by the text.

The Guardian - Books

Transcription factors are a very diverse family of proteins and generally function in multi-subunit protein complexes.

Encyclopedia Britannica

The long history of unintended consequences should warn regulators against trying to fix prices or rates in markets that generally function efficiently.Michael Stern Director Investment Education PLC Manchester SIRR – After years of hand-wringing The Economist seems finally to have reached the panic stage in recognising the multitude of threats levelled against the City of London.

The Economist

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

12 human-written examples

NOS3 generally functions to generate low levels of short-lived nitric oxide (NO) by converting L-arginine to citrulline in endothelial tissue (Hong et al., 2007).

Protein & Cell

Each group monitors itself, ensures the pact of trust with Grameen is not broken, offers mutual encouragement and advice and generally functions as a guarantee of good husbandry.

The Guardian - Business

The saving grace for the court is that it generally functions as a court, apart from politics.

The New Yorker

The Wall Street side of the business generally functioned smoothly; for example, the Bank of New York's securities processing business, one of the largest in the country, was operating normally, said Jeep Bryant, a spokesman for the bank.

The New York Times

Among the latter were military groups such as the Hidatsa Dog Society; these generally functioned as police and sometimes as rivals for battle honours.

Encyclopedia Britannica

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "generally function", ensure that the context allows for exceptions or variations. It indicates a typical, but not necessarily universal, behavior or role.

Common error

Avoid using "generally function" when describing something that always functions in a specific way. Use it only when there are potential exceptions or variations in function.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "generally function" primarily acts as a verb phrase, modifying a subject to describe its typical action or role. Examples from Ludwig show it used to describe how genes, proteins, and even markets behave under normal circumstances.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

Science

71%

News & Media

17%

Encyclopedias

6%

Less common in

Formal & Business

2%

Wiki

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "generally function" is a versatile phrase used to describe the typical operation or role of something, acknowledging potential exceptions. Ludwig AI affirms its grammatical correctness and frequent use across diverse fields like science, news, and encyclopedias. When writing, remember to reserve "generally function" for situations where a behavior is common but not absolute, and consider alternatives like "typically operate" or "usually work" to refine your meaning. Avoid using it when something always behaves the same way to prevent overgeneralization. Understanding these nuances will help you use the phrase effectively and accurately in your writing.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

typically operate

Focuses on the typical way something works or is used.

usually work

Emphasizes the common or expected way something performs.

commonly serve

Highlights the usual purpose or role something fulfills.

primarily act

Stresses the main way something behaves or influences.

mainly perform

Indicates the key actions or tasks something carries out.

frequently operate

Highlights how something often or regularly performs.

ordinarily function

Focuses on the normal or standard operating mode.

regularly work

Emphasizes the consistent or predictable behavior.

customarily serve

Indicates the habitual or traditional purpose.

conventionally function

Stresses adherence to established norms or practices.

FAQs

What does "generally function" mean?

The phrase "generally function" means to operate or work in a particular way most of the time, implying that there might be exceptions or variations.

How can I use "generally function" in a sentence?

You can use "generally function" to describe how something typically operates. For instance, "These devices "typically operate" as intended, but there can be exceptions."

What are some alternatives to "generally function"?

Alternatives to "generally function" include "typically operate", "usually work", or "commonly serve", depending on the nuance you want to convey.

Is it always correct to use "generally function"?

While "generally function" is grammatically correct, it's best used when describing typical behaviors that aren't always consistent. If something always works a certain way, a more definitive phrase is more appropriate.