in a variety of functions

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "in a variety of functions" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it to describe the different roles or purposes that something can serve or fulfill. Example: "The software is designed to operate in a variety of functions, including data analysis, project management, and communication."

✓ Grammatically correct

Science

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

This hypothesis is gaining strength due to findings that indicate involvement of Alu elements in a variety of functions; for example, Alu sequences were found to contain several functional transcription factor (TF) binding sites (BSs).

BMC Genomics

The process is surprisingly simple: the waste is mixed with water, heated, pressurised and made into sturdy panels that can be used in a variety of functions: as wall panels, tables, bowls, building walls, even glasses frames.

The Guardian

The type 1 σ receptor (σR1) has been shown to participate in a variety of functions in the central nervous system.

Biochimica et Biophysica Acta (BBA) - Molecular Cell Research

Contemporary research focuses on elucidating specific roles of individual neurons or a population of neurons in the command systems in a variety of functions, such as sensorimotor transformation, neural coding, and decision making.

Encyclopedia of Neuroscience

Circulating cortisol consists of primarily the bound, inactive form of the hormone, while 5 10% is unbound and biologically active and plays a prominent role in a variety of functions, including metabolic, immune responses and psychological effects through binding to cytoplasmic glucocorticoid receptors.

Sports Medicine - Open

Throughout the past twenty years Edward Yaeger has worked in a variety of functions at both Fortune 500 companies and startups.

Huffington Post

The ANP-family of proteins multitask in a variety of functions in both the cytoplasm and the nucleus [5].

Plosone

In dogs behavioural lateralization is evident in a variety of functions, including asymmetric tail wagging and paw preferences [5], [6], [7].

Plosone

Cholinergic neurotransmission plays a crucial role in a variety of functions of the central nervous system, including sensory perception, arousal, motivation, reward and psychosis [24].

Plosone

Because RORA is a hormone-dependent transcription factor that is involved in a variety of functions impacted in autism, we sought to investigate the effects of both male and female hormones on RORA expression.

Plosone

The insula has been implicated in a variety of functions and of interest in this context is its involvement in expressions of disgust and the appraisal of disagreeable stimuli (Phillips et al. 1997 [28]).

Plosone

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When describing the versatility of a system or component, use "in a variety of functions" to clearly indicate its ability to perform different tasks. Ensure the context provides specific examples to illustrate the range of functions.

Common error

Avoid using "in a variety of functions" as a generic filler. Always specify the particular functions to provide concrete information and enhance clarity. For instance, instead of saying "the device operates in a variety of functions", state "the device analyzes data, manages projects, and facilitates communication."

Linguistic Context

The phrase "in a variety of functions" acts as a prepositional phrase modifying a verb or noun, indicating that something operates or participates in multiple different roles or activities. As Ludwig AI confirms, this phrase is widely accepted and grammatically correct.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

Science

70%

News & Media

15%

Formal & Business

5%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

2%

Wiki

2%

Reference

1%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "in a variety of functions" is a versatile prepositional phrase used to highlight the multi-faceted nature of a subject. As Ludwig AI indicates, it's grammatically correct and frequently used, particularly in scientific and technical writing. While the phrase is acceptable, it's often more effective to provide specific examples of the functions for clarity. Alternatives like "in multiple roles" or "for diverse purposes" can be used, but "in a variety of functions" remains a strong and common choice.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

in multiple roles

This alternative simplifies the expression to emphasize the multiple roles served, removing the 'variety' aspect.

in various capacities

This alternative focuses on the different abilities or roles an entity can perform, shifting from 'functions' to 'capacities'.

for diverse purposes

This alternative highlights the different purposes something can be used for, changing the focus from 'functions' to 'purposes'.

with a range of applications

This alternative emphasizes the practical use of something in different situations, replacing 'functions' with 'applications'.

across different uses

This alternative broadens the scope to include all the different ways something can be used.

serving several aims

This alternative highlights how something can meet multiple goals, focusing on the intended outcomes.

performing manifold tasks

This alternative emphasizes the many different tasks that are carried out.

across a spectrum of activities

This alternative is used to convey something performs many activities, but it is less direct.

handling a multitude of operations

This alternative highlights the number of operations it can handle.

exercising diverse capabilities

This alternative underscores the broad capabilities.

FAQs

How can I use "in a variety of functions" in a sentence?

Use "in a variety of functions" to describe something's ability to perform multiple tasks or roles. For example: "This software can be used in a variety of functions, including data analysis and reporting."

What are some alternatives to "in a variety of functions"?

You can use alternatives like "in multiple roles", "in various capacities", or "for diverse purposes" depending on the specific context.

Is it better to specify the functions rather than using "in a variety of functions"?

Specifying the functions is often more precise and informative. However, "in a variety of functions" is useful when you want to emphasize the versatility without listing every single function.

What is the difference between "in a variety of functions" and "in a variety of roles"?

"In a variety of functions" emphasizes the tasks or operations performed, while "in a variety of roles" focuses on the different positions or capacities something can assume. The choice depends on whether you want to highlight the tasks or the positions.