serving the same function

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "serving the same function" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when discussing items, concepts, or actions that fulfill identical roles or purposes in a particular context. Example: "Both the old and new models of the device are serving the same function in the overall system."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Encyclopedias

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

9 human-written examples

It is also serving the same function for the American withdrawal from Iraq that is now under way.

The New York Times

Nintendo Power was one of the few reliable ways to keep up with new releases, serving the same function that trailers and radio stations did for movies and music.

The New Yorker

A criminal record has become the surrogate for race-based discrimination throughout the United States, serving the same function as did the Black Codes and Jim Crow in earlier times.

The New York Times

Paul Ghislein's "Dying Swan" (performed as Ida Nevesayneva) is by now classic, serving the same function as that piece often does in conventional ballet troupes — a showcase in which an aging star can show her age yet triumph against it.

The New York Times - Arts

Mr. Asma, who visited his collection at the Galerie d'Anatomie Comparée in Paris, notes that while some of Cuvier's cabinets contain objects serving the same function (like olfactory organs), the cabinets are also organized by "branches" of animal life, separating the organs of mammals or fish or reptiles.

The New York Times - Arts

Indeed, the report is seen by some as a sort of mini-manifesto on transport for Mr Brown, serving the same function that the Wanless and Stern reviews did to win support for health spending and measures to tackle climate change.David Begg, a former government adviser, points out that Sir Rod's remit was unusually clear to study the effects of transport policy on the economy.

The Economist

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

51 human-written examples

After the time of Julius Caesar, though it became more imposing, it was only one (albeit the most distinguished) of several complexes serving the same functions.

Encyclopedia Britannica

Tellingly, Julia Roberts serves the same function.

The New York Times

They served the same function in Tut's afterlife.

The New York Times - Arts

"We serve the same function as the broadsheets," he added.

The New York Times

The central garden served the same function as the courtyard, at much larger scale.

The New York Times - Arts

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "serving the same function" to illustrate that different designs or methods can achieve identical outcomes, fostering a deeper understanding of underlying principles.

Common error

Avoid using "serving the same function" when items or actions are merely similar but have key differences in their purpose or outcome. Ensure that the function truly aligns before drawing the comparison.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "serving the same function" acts as a predicate adjective phrase, modifying a noun or pronoun to describe its role or purpose. As Ludwig AI suggests, it highlights the functional equivalence between different entities. The examples provided by Ludwig showcase its use in various contexts.

Expression frequency: Uncommon

Frequent in

News & Media

43%

Science

29%

Encyclopedias

14%

Less common in

Formal & Business

0%

Academia

0%

Wiki

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "serving the same function" is a grammatically sound and useful phrase for denoting functional equivalence. Ludwig AI confirms its correctness and applicability across different writing styles. While the phrase isn't exceedingly common, its use is well-supported by authoritative sources like The New York Times and Encyclopedia Britannica, making it a reliable choice for establishing comparisons. When writing, ensure you're highlighting true functional overlap rather than superficial similarities.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

performing the same role

Focuses on the action of performing a role, rather than the function itself.

fulfilling the same purpose

Emphasizes the purpose being achieved, offering a slightly more formal tone.

providing the same service

Highlights the service aspect, suitable when discussing utilities or support.

acting in the same capacity

Implies a formal or official role, suggesting authority or responsibility.

operating with the same effect

Concentrates on the resultant effect of different actions or mechanisms.

functioning equivalently

Uses an adverb to emphasize the equivalence in function.

having the same application

Suitable when referring to a specific use or application of something.

achieving the same result

Focuses on the final outcome or achievement, regardless of the method.

working in a similar manner

Describes the process or way of working, rather than the function itself.

undertaking a parallel task

Suggests a task being done in parallel, similar but not necessarily identical.

FAQs

How can I rephrase "serving the same function"?

You can use alternatives like "performing the same role", "fulfilling the same purpose", or "providing the same service" depending on the specific context.

Is "serving the same function" grammatically correct?

Yes, "serving the same function" is grammatically correct and commonly used in written English to describe items or actions that fulfill identical roles or purposes.

What's the difference between "serving the same function" and "serving the same purpose"?

While similar, "serving the same function" typically relates to a specific task or operation, whereas "serving the same purpose" refers to the overall aim or intention being achieved.

How to use "serving the same function" in a sentence?

You can use "serving the same function" to compare different items: "Although they look different, both tools are "serving the same function"" or to describe roles: "In this context, both positions are "serving the same function"".