it does double duty as a

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "it does double duty as a" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it when describing something that serves two purposes or functions simultaneously. Example: "This tool is versatile; it does double duty as a hammer and a pry bar."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

3 human-written examples

Keith Phipps of The A.V. Club gave "The Angels Take Manhattan" a grade of A, attributing its success to "the way it does double duty as a twist adventure and a highly emotional story of farewells".

Wikipedia

But much else is functionally furniture, in the sense that it does double duty as a support for other art.

The New York Times

It's a great match for cameras, I think, since it does double duty as a display and data pipe.

TechCrunch

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

57 human-written examples

("The Bolter" does double duty as a history of cocktails).

The New York Times - Books

The pillow-laden bed does double duty as a couch during the day.

The New York Times

The result is a remodeled Head that does double duty as a studio space.

The Washington Post

For English majors, this book does double duty as a companion to Aunt Edith's novels.

The New York Times - Books

The general manager Nick Jones does double duty as a chef, preparing delicious, mostly locally sourced meat and seafood.

The New York Times

The Swedish Weddingstool table, 17 inches high and made of walnut-stained oak, does double duty as a seat.

The New York Times

Take the case of El Vilsito, a taquería in the Narvarte neighbourhood that does double duty as an auto repair shop.

The Guardian - Travel

The back wall can be swung down to do double duty as a patio.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "it does double duty as a", ensure the two functions are clearly and concisely stated to avoid ambiguity. For example, "This app does double duty as a calendar and a task manager."

Common error

Avoid using "it does double duty as a" repeatedly in close proximity. Vary your language by using synonyms or rephrasing to maintain reader engagement. For example, instead of saying "The sofa does double duty as a bed," consider "The sofa transforms into a bed."

Linguistic Context

The phrase "it does double duty as a" functions as a descriptive element, attributing dual functionalities to a subject. Ludwig examples show its use in describing objects or roles that fulfill two purposes, for example: "It's a great match for cameras, I think, since it does double duty as a display and data pipe."

Expression frequency: Uncommon

Frequent in

News & Media

80%

Wiki

10%

Science

10%

Less common in

Formal & Business

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "it does double duty as a" is a descriptive phrase used to emphasize the dual functionality of a subject. Ludwig AI indicates that this phrase is grammatically correct and serves to highlight versatility or efficiency. It is most commonly found in News & Media, indicating a neutral register suitable for a broad audience. While common, overuse should be avoided by employing synonyms or rephrasing for variety. Examples from authoritative sources like The New York Times and TechCrunch confirm its widespread usage in describing objects or roles with multiple purposes.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

it serves a dual purpose as

Emphasizes the two purposes served.

it functions both as

Highlights both functions it fulfills.

it performs two roles as

Focuses on the roles it undertakes.

it acts as both

Highlights its capacity to perform in two distinct ways.

it pulls double duty as

Informal way to express doing two jobs.

it moonlights as

Suggests a secondary, often surprising, role.

it is dually purposed as

Formal phrasing.

it combines the functions of

Focuses on the combination of different function.

it has a twofold function as

Highlights the dual nature of its function.

it is multi functional as

Describes more than one function.

FAQs

What does "it does double duty as a" mean?

The phrase "it does double duty as a" means that something serves two purposes or functions simultaneously. For example, a smartphone does double duty as a communication device and a portable entertainment system.

How can I use "it does double duty as a" in a sentence?

You can use "it does double duty as a" to describe items or people that have multiple roles. For example: "This room divider "serves as a" decorative element and a privacy screen."

What can I say instead of "it does double duty as a"?

You can use alternatives like "serves a dual purpose as", "functions both as", or "acts as both" depending on the context.

Is "it does double duty as a" formal or informal?

The phrase "it does double duty as a" is considered relatively neutral and can be used in both formal and informal contexts, although more formal options like "serves a dual purpose as" may be preferred in certain settings.