primary functions

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "primary functions" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to refer to the main or most important roles or tasks that something is designed to perform. Example: "The primary functions of this software include data analysis, reporting, and visualization."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Encyclopedias

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

59 human-written examples

In essence, the commissioner of the PGA Tour has two primary functions.

The New York Times - Sports

One of his firm's primary functions is to help celebrities discover where their charitable passions lie.

The New Yorker

Mentors provide two primary functions to their protégés.

Encyclopedia Britannica

For the better part of the millennium preceding Meiji's reign the primary functions of the emperor were ritual, or priestly.

The New York Times - Books

This is the first time a technology company and platform has decided that one of its primary functions is news.

The Guardian - Opinion

"One of the primary functions of the nose is filtration," Dr. Katial said.

The New York Times

One of its primary functions was to serve as a backdrop for imperial appearances and proclamations.

Encyclopedia Britannica

It is a wasteful approach, for sure, but very its primary functions are the generation of profit and the urbanisation of a recently rural country.

The Guardian - Books

"The question now is, what will be the shape of its decline?" Dr. Hughes sees submarkets in the region affected differently, reflecting housing's primary functions -- shelter and investment.

The New York Times

Cornwell said one of Anchin's primary functions in 2006 was to ensure that locations were arranged where she could write without distraction while her home was undergoing reconstruction.

The Guardian - Books

Mr. Yang said in an interview Monday that some of his primary functions would be to reinvigorate the company and attract top talent, not to overhaul its strategy.

The New York Times - Tech

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When describing the purpose of something, use "primary functions" to clearly indicate the most important roles or tasks. For example, "The primary functions of a library are to provide access to information and promote literacy."

Common error

Avoid using "primary functions" in very informal or casual writing. In these situations, simpler alternatives like "main jobs" or "basic tasks" may be more appropriate.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "primary functions" acts as a noun phrase, typically functioning as the subject complement or object in a sentence. Ludwig AI indicates its wide usage across various contexts.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

35%

Science

32%

Encyclopedias

12%

Less common in

Wiki

4%

Formal & Business

1%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "primary functions" is a grammatically sound and frequently used expression to denote the most important roles or purposes of something. As confirmed by Ludwig, it enjoys broad applicability across diverse fields like news, science, and encyclopedias, indicating its versatility. While alternatives such as "main functions" or "core functions" exist, "primary functions" offers a specific nuance that emphasizes the foundational or essential nature of the roles being described. When aiming for clarity and precision in your writing, particularly in formal contexts, "primary functions" serves as a reliable choice.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

main functions

Focuses on the principal or chief roles, often interchangeable with "primary functions".

core functions

Emphasizes the essential and fundamental roles, highlighting what is indispensable.

key functions

Highlights the most important or crucial functions among others.

essential functions

Stresses the necessity and importance of the functions.

fundamental functions

Indicates the basic and foundational roles upon which others depend.

basic functions

Refers to the most simple and necessary functions.

principal roles

Highlights the main roles or duties, often used in formal contexts.

chief purposes

Focuses on the primary aims or goals, emphasizing intention.

central tasks

Emphasizes the tasks that are most important or crucial.

major responsibilities

Highlights significant duties or obligations, often in professional settings.

FAQs

How can I use "primary functions" in a sentence?

You can use "primary functions" to describe the main roles or purposes of something. For example, "One of the "primary functions" of government is to ensure public safety".

What are some alternatives to "primary functions"?

Some alternatives include "main functions", "core functions", or "key functions", depending on the specific context.

Is it better to say "primary functions" or "main functions"?

Both "primary functions" and "main functions" are correct and often interchangeable. The choice depends on the desired level of formality and emphasis. "Primary" may suggest a more fundamental or essential role.

What is the difference between "primary functions" and "secondary functions"?

"Primary functions" refer to the most important roles or purposes, while "secondary functions" are less important or supplementary roles.