it can function

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "it can function" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it to describe the capability or operation of an object, system, or concept. Example: "In this mode, it can function as a standard printer, allowing you to print documents directly from your computer."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Academia

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

This is very bad for the mind, which constantly needs to be fed new information so it can function to its highest potential.

HuffPost

Pronto.ly has filed patents around filtering its ultrasound signal pattern out of background noise so it can function in noisy environments.

TechCrunch

However, its ability to complement a Δ gal10 yeast strain, demonstrates that it can function in vivo.

Biochimie

It can function as a powerful form of thought control.

The New Yorker

It can function perfectly even if no soldier has one.

The New Yorker

And because the Internet permits interactivity, it can function as a simulacrum of a classroom.

The New York Times - Magazine

The Rock may be an anachronism, but that's the only basis on which it can function.

The Guardian

It can function like a temptation to people who, in the past, would not have considered going to a museum".

The New York Times - Arts

Multipurpose, it can function as both a damage deliverer and party punch-bag, making the game much more "group friendly".

The Guardian - Tech

"The thinking is, we may take it down to the riverside where it can function more as a pavilion again".

The Guardian - Arts

Like other portable players, it can function as an external hard drive for toting large files around town.

The New York Times - Tech

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When describing the capabilities of a system or device, use "it can function" followed by a clear explanation of how it operates or what it achieves. Be specific to avoid ambiguity.

Common error

Avoid using "it can function" without specifying the conditions or parameters of its functionality. For example, instead of saying "it can function effectively", specify "it can function effectively in low-light conditions".

Linguistic Context

The phrase "it can function" primarily serves as a declarative statement indicating the ability or capacity of something to perform a specific action or role. As evidenced by the examples provided by Ludwig, it is commonly used to describe the functionality of various entities, ranging from software to biological components.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

40%

Science

38%

Academia

22%

Less common in

Formal & Business

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Wiki

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "it can function" is a versatile and grammatically sound expression used to denote the capability of an entity to perform a specific action or role. Ludwig AI confirms its validity through numerous examples drawn from diverse fields such as news, science, and academia. Its communicative purpose lies in informing and clarifying the functionality of a subject, suitable for a neutral register. While the phrase is prevalent across different contexts, specifying the conditions or parameters of functionality helps avoid overgeneralization. Alternatives like "it is capable of functioning" or "it is able to operate" offer subtle variations in phrasing, ensuring clarity and precision in communication. According to Ludwig, "it can function" is a commonly used expression, suitable for a wide range of applications.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

it is capable of functioning

Uses a more formal tone by employing "capable of functioning" instead of "can function".

it is able to operate

Replaces "function" with "operate", indicating the ability to work or perform.

it has the capacity to work

Focuses on the inherent capacity or potential to perform a task.

it is designed to perform

Highlights the intended purpose or design for a specific action.

it serves as

Emphasizes the role or purpose that something fulfills.

it is in working order

Indicates that something is in a suitable condition to function correctly.

it is operational

States that something is ready for or currently in use.

it is effective

Highlights that something is producing the desired result or effect.

it fulfills its purpose

Focuses on the completion of a task or achievement of a goal.

it is useful

Highlights the applicability of something in achieving a specific goal.

FAQs

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

Use "it can function" to describe the capability or operation of an object, system, or concept. For example, "In this mode, "it can function" as a standard printer, allowing you to print documents directly from your computer".

What are some alternatives to "it can function"?

You can use alternatives like "it is capable of functioning" or "it is able to operate" to convey a similar meaning with slightly different phrasing.

Is it grammatically correct to say "it can function"?

Yes, it is grammatically correct and widely accepted in both formal and informal writing. Ludwig AI confirms its validity, backed by numerous examples from reliable sources.

What's the difference between "it can function" and "it will function"?

"It can function" describes a capability or possibility, whereas "it will function" implies a future action or certainty. Choose the phrase that best reflects the intended meaning in your context.