perform a function

USAGE SUMMARY

"perform a function" is correct and usable in written English.
It is often used to refer to a task or process that has been assigned to a person or machine. For example: "The computer's role is to perform a function that would take a person too much time to complete."

✓ Grammatically correct

Science

News & Media

Academia

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

'Disability' refers to deficiencies or restrictions of expected activity performance and behaviour, i.e. the individual loses its ability to perform a function in a manner considered normal for a human being.

BMC Health Services Research

To perform a function, the user taps twice.

Harvard University

"I think that our organizations in some ways perform a function similar to that of an old-fashioned social club".

The New York Times

You see this design when you see co-ordinated parts coming together to perform a function - like in a hand.

The Guardian

Members of Congress have been elected to perform a function, which they are far from fulfilling.

The New York Times

The ubiquitous and overlapping expression of the SV2s suggests that they perform a function common to all synaptic vesicles.

Stanford University

"I have worked at other companies where they only wanted me to perform a function, and as long as I could do that, it was enough," she said.

The New York Times

But it could also be that the red pigment is somehow adaptive: that red autumn leaves are a product of natural selection, because they perform a function which offers some advantage to the tree.

The Guardian

Mr. Gates described the ability of the new version of Word to recognize an address, or a United Parcel Service shipping number, or even a United Airlines flight number and perform a function like looking up shipping or flight information.

The New York Times

The symbols of sexuality and the life cycle perform a function similar to those of time and eternity in the higher religions.

Encyclopedia Britannica

The idea, he said, was to learn to keep the "chimp" in check so that the body could perform a function with composure – like when an athlete is "in the zone" – almost on autopilot.

The Guardian

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When describing the function of a system or component, use "perform a function" to clearly indicate its designed action or operation.

Common error

While "perform a function" is acceptable, avoid overuse by varying your language with synonyms like "carry out a task" or "serve a purpose" where appropriate.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "perform a function" primarily serves as a verb phrase. It indicates the action or operation that someone or something is designed or able to do. Ludwig AI validates the usage and provides numerous examples across different fields.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

Science

43%

News & Media

40%

Academia

12%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

2%

Formal & Business

2%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "perform a function" is a versatile and grammatically sound expression used to describe the action or operation of an entity. Ludwig AI confirms its frequent usage across diverse fields, especially in science, news, and academia. While acceptable in various contexts, it's wise to avoid overuse by considering synonyms like "carry out a task" or "serve a purpose". Remember that "perform a function" describes the action itself, distinct from "provide a function", which refers to capability. By understanding its nuances and exploring alternatives, you can effectively communicate the roles and actions of various subjects.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

carry out a task

Focuses on the execution of a specific task, implying a more concrete action than the original phrase.

execute a process

Emphasizes the step-by-step nature of an action, suggesting a well-defined series of operations.

fulfill a role

Highlights the responsibility or duty associated with the action, rather than the action itself.

serve a purpose

Shifts the focus to the reason or intention behind the action, rather than the action itself.

undertake an operation

Suggests a more complex and planned action, often with a specific goal in mind.

discharge a responsibility

Focuses on the completion of a duty or obligation, implying a formal or official context.

conduct an activity

Highlights the general engagement in an action, without specifying the outcome or purpose.

exercise a power

Refers to the use of authority or control to achieve a particular result.

operate a system

Implies the management and control of a complex set of interconnected elements.

accomplish an objective

Emphasizes the successful completion of a goal or aim.

FAQs

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

You can use "perform a function" to describe the purpose or action of something, such as "The software is designed to perform a function quickly and efficiently."

What are some alternatives to "perform a function"?

Alternatives include "carry out a task", "serve a purpose", or "fulfill a role", depending on the specific context.

Is it better to say "perform a function" or "complete a function"?

"Perform a function" is generally preferred because it focuses on the ongoing action, while "complete a function" implies finishing a specific, defined action. Consider using "execute a process" if referring to function completion.

What's the difference between "perform a function" and "provide a function"?

"Perform a function" describes the act of doing something, while "provide a function" describes offering or making something available. The former indicates an active process, while the latter suggests capability or availability.