its role

USAGE SUMMARY

"its role" is correct and usable in written English.
It is often used to refer to the function, purpose, or responsibility of something or someone. Example: The company's marketing team plays a crucial role in promoting its products and increasing sales.

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

58 human-written examples

It's not government abdicating its role, it is government changing its role.

The Guardian

"But it's got its role to play.

The New York Times

Its role is different.

The Guardian - Travel

I wish its role were larger.

The New York Times - Arts

Increasingly, its role is being questioned.

The Economist

Its role in financial transactions is piffling.

The Economist

or acknowledged he was redefining its role.

The New York Times

Its role was over," he explains.

Independent

What's its role?

The Guardian

Technology has its role.

The New York Times

"Its role is not over".

The New York Times - Arts

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When discussing the function of an entity within a larger system, use "its role" to clearly define the part it plays and how it contributes to the overall outcome.

Common error

Avoid using "its role" vaguely. Always provide context to clarify what the role entails. For example, instead of saying 'Technology has its role', specify 'Technology has its role in facilitating communication'.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "its role" functions as a noun phrase indicating the part or function that something or someone plays in a particular situation. It often specifies the contribution or responsibility associated with the subject, as confirmed by Ludwig.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

40%

Science

35%

Formal & Business

15%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

5%

Wiki

3%

Reference

2%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "its role" is a grammatically sound and frequently used phrase that denotes the function, purpose, or responsibility of something. Ludwig AI confirms its correct usage across various contexts, particularly in News & Media and Scientific domains. While generally neutral in register, it is often found in more formal and analytical discussions. To use it effectively, ensure the context clearly defines what "its role" pertains to, avoiding vague or ambiguous references. Alternatives like "its function" or "its significance" can provide nuanced variations depending on the specific meaning you want to convey.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

its function

Replaces "role" with a synonym emphasizing the practical purpose or operation.

its purpose

Focuses on the intended outcome or reason for existence, instead of the function.

its significance

Highlights the importance or impact, differing from the active contribution implied by 'role'.

its responsibility

Emphasizes the duties or obligations associated, rather than general function.

its part

Indicates a contribution to a larger whole, rather than the overall function.

its position

Emphasizes status or placement, altering the focus from active involvement.

its contribution

Highlights the act of giving or adding to something, a subset of overall role.

its duty

Stresses moral or legal obligations, rather than functional purpose.

its task

Refers to a specific job or assignment, more granular than a general role.

its objective

Highlights the goal or aim to be achieved, differing from ongoing function.

FAQs

How can I use "its role" in a sentence?

Use "its role" to describe the function, purpose, or responsibility of a particular thing or entity within a specific context. For example: "The government is changing "its role" in healthcare."

What are some alternatives to "its role"?

Depending on the context, you can use phrases like "its function", "its purpose", or "its significance".

Is it ever incorrect to use "its role"?

While generally correct, ensure the context clearly defines what "its role" refers to. Vague usage without clear reference can make the sentence confusing.

What's the difference between "its role" and "its responsibility"?

"Its role" broadly refers to the function or part played, while "its responsibility" specifically denotes the duties or obligations associated with that function. They are related but not always interchangeable.