simply a function

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "simply a function" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it when describing something that serves a straightforward or basic purpose without any additional complexity. Example: "In this context, the variable is simply a function that returns the sum of two numbers."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Academia

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

"Layoffs are simply a function of a reduction in programming.

The New York Times

Some deal breakers are simply a function of place.

The New York Times - Food

Part of it may be simply a function of maturation.

The New York Times

But what the two aides represent isn't simply a function of velocity or decibel level.

The New York Times

Some people think that Strait's trouble on the radio is simply a function of age.

The New Yorker

Especially troubling is evidence that this is not simply a function of poverty.

The New York Times - Health

Playing well online is not simply a function of offline charisma.

The New York Times - Magazine

This stalemate is not simply a function of the current fiscal climate, however.

The Guardian

Increasing output is not simply a function of adding new capacity to already existing operations.

The Guardian - Business

And that isn't simply a function of Donald Trump or even our newly partisan times.

Yale University

That is simply a function of the fact that they too exist within an economy.

University of California, Berkeley

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "simply a function", ensure the relationship between the cause and effect is clear and direct. Avoid using it for complex or multi-faceted relationships.

Common error

Avoid using "simply a function" when describing complex phenomena with multiple contributing factors. Overusing this phrase can oversimplify intricate relationships and mislead readers.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "simply a function" acts as a predicate nominative, linking a subject to a noun phrase that renames or describes it. As evidenced by Ludwig AI, this construction asserts that a particular outcome or characteristic is a direct and uncomplicated consequence of something else.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

40%

Academia

30%

Science

15%

Less common in

Formal & Business

10%

Wiki

2%

Reference

3%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "simply a function" is a versatile phrase used to express a direct causal relationship between two elements. Ludwig AI confirms its grammatical correctness and frequent usage across various contexts, including News & Media, Academia, and Science. While widely applicable, it's important to use it judiciously, avoiding oversimplification in complex scenarios. Remember to maintain clarity and precision when employing this phrase to ensure accurate communication. Consider alternatives such as "merely a result" or "purely a product of" for nuanced expression.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

merely a result

Replaces "function" with "result", focusing on the outcome rather than the process.

just a consequence

Substitutes "simply" with "just" and "function" with "consequence", emphasizing the direct outcome.

purely a product of

Uses "purely a product of" to highlight that something is entirely created by another factor.

solely determined by

Indicates that something is exclusively decided or influenced by a particular factor.

nothing more than a result of

Emphasizes the lack of any other contributing factors beyond the stated cause.

directly dependent on

Focuses on the direct relationship where one thing relies on another.

strictly a matter of

Highlights that something is only related to or caused by the specified factor.

plainly a reflection of

Suggests that something is obviously showing or representing a specific cause.

fundamentally linked to

Emphasizes that something is basically or essentially connected to another.

essentially a correlate of

Indicates that something is inherently related or associated with another factor.

FAQs

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

Use "simply a function" to describe a straightforward relationship where one thing directly results from another. For example, "Layoffs are "simply a function" of a reduction in programming."

What alternatives can I use instead of "simply a function"?

You can use alternatives such as "merely a result", "just a consequence", or "purely a product of" depending on the specific nuance you want to convey. These alternatives emphasize the direct causal relationship in a similar way.

Is it appropriate to use "simply a function" in formal writing?

Yes, "simply a function" is appropriate for formal writing, especially in academic and professional contexts, as it clearly and concisely describes a direct relationship or dependency. However, use it judiciously to avoid oversimplification.

What is the difference between "simply a function of" and "complex interaction of"?

"Simply a function of" indicates a direct, uncomplicated relationship, while "complex interaction of" suggests multiple factors are at play. Use the former when the relationship is straightforward and the latter when multiple elements contribute to the outcome.