primary role

USAGE SUMMARY

"primary role" is correct and can be used in written English.
You can use it when referring to the main task or objective of someone or something. For example, "In his primary role as a teacher, he has nurtured many students over the years."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science & Research

Academia

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

Its primary role is functional.

The New York Times

Environmental concerns must play a primary role.

The New York Times

What is your primary role?

The Washington Post

Incorporating socioeconomic rights wouldn't undermine the primary role of parliament.

The Guardian - Opinion

"But our primary role is as a regulator".

The New York Times

"The auditor's primary role... is a look-back exercise.

The Guardian - Business

Of course, women's primary role was medical.

The New York Times

The Primary Role of beta-Hexosaminidase in Mast Cell Granules.

Nature

My primary role is teaching residents and veterinary students.

Cornell University

But with the polygraph, the examiner plays a primary role.

Independent

But his primary role for England is that of wicketkeeper.

Independent

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When defining a "primary role", be specific about the responsibilities and outcomes associated with it to avoid ambiguity.

Common error

Avoid using "primary role" when the role is actually shared or secondary. Ensure it truly represents the most significant function.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "primary role" functions as a noun phrase, typically serving as a subject complement or object in a sentence. It identifies the most important function or responsibility of a person, object, or concept. Ludwig examples illustrate varied applications across domains.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

50%

Science & Research

20%

Academia

15%

Less common in

Formal & Business

5%

Encyclopedias

5%

Science

5%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "primary role" is a noun phrase widely used to denote the most important function or responsibility. As confirmed by Ludwig, it is grammatically correct and appropriate for various contexts, including news, academia, and professional settings. While the phrase is common, it's crucial to use it accurately, ensuring that it genuinely reflects the main function being described. Alternatives like "main function" or "chief responsibility" can be considered based on context.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

main function

Focuses on the key operational purpose, rather than a designated position.

chief responsibility

Emphasizes the key duty or obligation associated with a role.

principal task

Highlights the most important job or activity someone undertakes.

core function

Indicates a fundamental and essential activity.

central duty

Highlights the most important duty that needs to be fulfilled.

key responsibility

Emphasizes a particularly important area of accountability.

main purpose

Focuses on the overarching goal or intention.

major function

Highlights the significance of a function.

essential task

Focuses on tasks that are indispensable.

critical function

Highlights functions of the utmost importance.

FAQs

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

You can use "primary role" to describe the main function or responsibility of someone or something. For example, "The "primary role" of a teacher is to educate students".

What's a good alternative to "primary role"?

Alternatives include "main function", "chief responsibility", or "principal task" depending on the specific context.

Is it appropriate to use "primary role" in formal writing?

Yes, "primary role" is suitable for formal writing as it's a clear and professional way to describe a main function or responsibility. Refer to the examples from academic or business publications for appropriate usage.

What's the difference between "primary role" and "secondary role"?

"Primary role" refers to the main or most important function, while "secondary role" refers to a less important or supporting function. Understanding this distinction ensures clarity in describing responsibilities.