performing the function of

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "performing the function of" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when describing the role or purpose of a person, object, or system in a specific context. Example: "The new software is performing the function of streamlining our workflow and improving efficiency."

✓ Grammatically correct

Science

News & Media

Encyclopedias

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

6 human-written examples

Hobbes insists that any entity capable of performing the function of de facto authority is necessarily justified and deserves the obedience of the de facto subjects (Hobbes 1668).

SEP

Despite his retirement, Eckfeldt continued to come to the mint every day until shortly before his death in February 1852, performing the function of Chief Coiner and leaving Peale with time on his hands.

Wikipedia

Clp ATPases maintain quality of cellular proteins by performing the function of molecular chaperones and energy dependent proteases.

BMC Genomics

Thus, we may visualize bone matrix performing the function of a molecular crate or framework of collagenous partitions containing BMP and various accessory chemical components, synthesized in the course of the long process of cell differentiation, tissue development, and disease.

Clinical Orthopaedics and Related Research

This may be due to the about 90% peptidoglycan component of the cell wall of Gram-positive bacteria, which is not a regulatory in comparison to the cell membrane of the gram negative bacteria, and therefore, incapable of performing the function of selective permeability, and thus allow substances to sieve through it.

Annals of Clinical Microbiology and Antimicrobials

In zebrafish, it is possible that the zebrafish apoB paralogs have subfunctionalized, with apoBa restricted to performing the function of the ancestral gene in the liver and heart [where it is expressed in humans and mice (Nielsen et al., 1998)] and apoBb.1 performing the majority of function of the ancestral gene in the intestine.

DMM Disease Models and Mechanisms

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

52 human-written examples

You're performing the functions of 15 people.

The New York Times

Monsignor Sheeran is still president but is performing the functions of both president and chancellor.

The New York Times

Although some native species are increasing, along with some new species that have appeared in the UK, they do not offset the losses caused by the drop in wildlife performing the functions of pollination and pest control.

The Guardian

Thus, the master-journeyman-apprentice relationship gave way to an employer-employee arrangement, with the master performing the functions of merchant while his employees did craftwork.

Encyclopedia Britannica

The limbs play a major part in the movement of the horse, with the legs performing the functions of absorbing impact, bearing weight, and providing thrust.

Wikipedia

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "performing the function of" when you want to clearly and formally describe the role or purpose of something. It's suitable for technical, scientific, or professional contexts where precision is important.

Common error

Avoid using "performing the function of" in casual writing or conversation. Simpler alternatives like "acting as" or "serving as" are often more appropriate and less cumbersome.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "performing the function of" typically acts as a verb phrase within a sentence, describing the action or role that a subject is undertaking. As shown by Ludwig, it connects a subject to its purpose or activity.

Expression frequency: Uncommon

Frequent in

Science

40%

News & Media

33%

Encyclopedias

16%

Less common in

Wiki

11%

Formal & Business

0%

Academia

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "performing the function of" is a grammatically correct and useful expression for formally describing the role or purpose of something. Ludwig's AI analysis confirms its validity and common usage across different sources. While the phrase is most frequently found in scientific and news contexts, it's important to reserve it for situations where a formal tone is appropriate, opting for simpler alternatives in casual contexts.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

serving the purpose of

Replaces 'function' with 'purpose', emphasizing intent or reason.

acting as

Simplifies the phrase to a more direct statement of role.

fulfilling the role of

Emphasizes the execution of a defined role.

operating as

Focuses on the action or process of functioning.

executing the duties of

Highlights the responsibilities and tasks involved.

discharging the responsibility of

Implies a formal obligation being met.

taking on the role of

Indicates an assumption of a new role or function.

working in the capacity of

Specifies the context or scope of the function.

tasked with

A shorter way of indicating assignment of function

undertaking the activity of

Emphasizes the active engagement in the function.

FAQs

What does "performing the function of" mean?

It means carrying out the specific task, duty, or role that something or someone is intended to do. It's a formal way of describing how something operates or what its purpose is.

What can I say instead of "performing the function of"?

You can use alternatives like "serving the purpose of", "acting as", or "fulfilling the role of" depending on the context.

Is it better to say "performing the function of" or "functions as"?

"Functions as" is generally more concise and direct. "Performing the function of" is more formal and emphasizes the act of carrying out the function. Choose the option that best fits the tone and style of your writing.

How do I use "performing the function of" in a sentence?

Use "performing the function of" to describe what a thing or person does. For example, "The software is "performing the function of" data analysis" or "The manager is "performing the function of" overseeing the team".