it doubles as a

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "it doubles as a" is grammatically correct and can be used in written English.
You can use this phrase to describe a situation in which something serves two purposes. For example, "This room has a closet that doubles as a small office."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Academia

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

55 human-written examples

When Sunni Arab Hamas acts out its agenda in a violent form, it doubles as a fitting proxy for Iran's schizophrenic dreams of regional hegemony.

Huffington Post

It doubles as a candleholder.

The New York Times

Worst case, it doubles as a pillow.

The New York Times - Travel

And it doubles as a phone!

The New York Times

It doubles as a family photo.

The New York Times

On public transport, it doubles as a ticket.

The Guardian - Tech

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

5 human-written examples

But it doubles as an artistic credo.

The New York Times

It doubles as an eye makeup remover and includes soothing aloe vera.

The New York Times

It comes with tongs, and it doubles as an ice bucket.

The New York Times

It doubles as an instant messenger, with development support provided by Alibaba's Dingtalk enterprise communications tool.

TechCrunch

It doubles as an art gallery and event space, creating a community around the things it sells.

Huffington Post

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "it doubles as a", ensure that both functions are clearly understood by the reader to avoid ambiguity. Provide context for both roles to maintain clarity.

Common error

Avoid using "it doubles as a" when the secondary function is significantly less important or effective than the primary one. This can mislead the reader about the actual utility.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "it doubles as a" functions as a descriptive connector, linking a subject to its secondary role or purpose. As Ludwig AI confirms, it highlights the dual functionality of something, as shown in Ludwig's examples.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

68%

Academia

12%

Wiki

4%

Less common in

Formal & Business

0%

Science

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "it doubles as a" is a versatile and grammatically correct expression used to describe something with two functions or purposes. Ludwig AI confirms its validity and provides numerous examples showcasing its usage across various contexts. While widely used in neutral contexts like news and media, it's important to ensure both functions are clearly defined to prevent ambiguity. Alternatives such as "it also functions as a" and "it serves a dual purpose as a" can offer subtle shifts in emphasis. By understanding its function, purpose, and register, writers can effectively use "it doubles as a" to enhance clarity and conciseness in their writing.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

it does double duty as a

An idiomatic expression that is similar in meaning but perhaps slightly less formal.

it also functions as a

Replaces "doubles" with "also functions", emphasizing secondary function without implying the first use is primary.

it serves a dual purpose as a

Highlights the two purposes more explicitly, using "dual purpose" to emphasize two distinct roles.

it can also be used as a

Focuses on the possibility of using something in another way, reducing the sense of intended duality.

it works as both a

Emphasizes the capacity of something to function in two different ways simultaneously.

it is also employed as a

More formal and emphasizes the active utilization of something in a secondary role.

it is designed to also be a

Highlights the intentionality behind the dual functionality, implying a design feature.

it acts as a multifunctional

This implies it serves multiple functions simultaneously, highlighting versatility.

it has the added benefit of being a

Focuses on the secondary function as a bonus or advantage.

it is not only a...but also a

Emphasizes two distinct qualities or functions, creating a contrast.

FAQs

How can I use "it doubles as a" in a sentence?

Use "it doubles as a" to describe an object or concept that has two functions or purposes. For example, "This sofa "it doubles as a" bed for guests".

What are some alternatives to "it doubles as a"?

Alternatives include phrases like "it also functions as a", "it serves a dual purpose as a", or "it can also be used as a" depending on the specific nuance you want to convey.

Is "it doubles as" formal or informal?

The phrase "it doubles as" is generally considered neutral and can be used in both formal and informal contexts, although more formal alternatives might be preferred in highly academic or professional writing.

What is the difference between "it doubles as a" and "it also works as a"?

While both phrases indicate dual functionality, "it doubles as a" implies a more significant or intended secondary purpose, whereas "it also works as a" might suggest a more incidental or less prominent additional function.