state functionary

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "state functionary" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to refer to an official or employee of a government or state organization, often in a bureaucratic context. Example: "The state functionary was responsible for implementing the new policy across various departments."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Encyclopedias

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

9 human-written examples

He raised his hands to the sky, then gestured toward a state functionary visiting his farm.

The New York Times

He has said that his goal is "to be a filmmaker and state functionary, as in Russia. . . .

The New Yorker

But the state functionary filling out his application put down the course code as 1012, instead of 1013.

The New York Times

As the representative of the province, the governor presides over the implementation of the decisions of the APW, and, as a senior state functionary, the governor is the direct representative in the province of each national ministry.

Encyclopedia Britannica

Again, there is no clear evidence this would work and the idea of involving yet another state functionary in child-raising will not appeal to everyone.Their third suggestion is to consolidate schools into institutions akin to "a small university campus".

The Economist

If we don't say the words, what is there in our world?" Le Guin provides Sutty with an antagonist, a state functionary as devoted to Akan Corporation dogma as Sutty is to learning the truth.

The New York Times - Books

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

51 human-written examples

Amid the chaos, many former state functionaries turned into entrepreneurs.

The New York Times - Magazine

After all, in addition to revering authors, Russia has another venerable tradition – cosmic levels of graft perpetrated by state functionaries.

The Guardian - Books

It was expected that the boys who graduated from these schools would go on to become schoolteachers, ministers, or state functionaries.

Encyclopedia Britannica

After the Bolshevik Revolution, Soviet power held the promise of modernization, and, with time, many Chechens joined the Communist system as professors, doctors, and state functionaries.

The New Yorker

You see this in the way Toby Jones's Lucio and Richard Katz's Pompey shift from low-life porn-brokers to well-heeled state functionaries.

The Guardian

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "state functionary", ensure the context clearly indicates the specific level of government (e.g., state, regional, or national) to avoid ambiguity.

Common error

While grammatically correct, "state functionary" can sound overly formal or bureaucratic in casual conversation. Opt for simpler terms like "government employee" or "public servant" in less formal settings.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "state functionary" functions primarily as a noun phrase, typically serving as the subject or object of a sentence. It identifies a person working within a government or state organization, as shown by Ludwig.

Expression frequency: Uncommon

Frequent in

News & Media

41%

Encyclopedias

24%

Science

18%

Less common in

Wiki

12%

Formal & Business

5%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "state functionary" is a grammatically sound phrase referring to a government official or employee. Ludwig AI confirms its usability in written English. While not incorrect, its frequency is uncommon and its register leans towards formal. It's typically used in news, encyclopedias, and scientific contexts. For less formal communication, alternatives like "government official" or "public servant" may be more suitable. Key considerations include the context and desired level of formality when employing this phrase.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

government official

Broader term referring to any official within a government.

state employee

Employee working for the state government.

public servant

Emphasizes the service aspect of working for the government.

public administrator

Focuses on the administrative role within government.

civil servant

Specifically refers to employees of the civil service.

public officer

Someone who holds a position of authority in the government.

government employee

A general term for anyone employed by the government.

government worker

General term for someone employed by the government.

bureaucrat

Often carries a negative connotation, implying excessive adherence to rules.

official

Short and less specific term for government employee.

FAQs

How can I use "state functionary" in a sentence?

You can use "state functionary" to refer to an official or employee of a government or state organization. For example: "The state functionary was responsible for implementing the new policy."

What's the difference between a "state functionary" and a "bureaucrat"?

While both terms refer to government employees, "bureaucrat" often carries a negative connotation, suggesting someone who is overly rigid and focused on rules, whereas "state functionary" is more neutral.

What are some alternative phrases for "state functionary"?

Alternatives include "government official", "public servant", or "civil servant", depending on the specific context and nuance you wish to convey.

Is "state functionary" a formal term?

Yes, "state functionary" is a relatively formal term and is typically used in official documents, news reports, and academic writing. In less formal contexts, simpler terms may be more appropriate.