this is a function of

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "this is a function of" is correct and usable in written English.
It is typically used to indicate that one variable or condition is dependent on another in a mathematical, scientific, or analytical context. Example: "The success of the project is a function of the team's collaboration and communication skills."

✓ Grammatically correct

Academia

Formal & Business

News & Media

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

This is a function of desire, but also of drunkenness.

The New Yorker

"I think this is a function of the UK.

The Guardian - Business

Much of this is a function of global economics.

The New York Times - Arts

Partly, this is a function of generational replacement.

The New Yorker

And, this is a function of a, b, and theta.

Massachusetts Institute of Technology

In part this is a function of federalism.

Harvard University

Part of this is a function of Clark's solicitousness, her courteous manner.

The New Yorker

Partly this is a function of the complex way Taiwan elects its Legislature.

The New York Times

Maybe this is a function of coming of age in the pre-soccer era.

The New York Times

Partly, this is a function of tech's tight networking and famous tolerance for failure.

The New Yorker

In part, this is a function of the passion many people feel for Trump.

The Washington Post

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "this is a function of" when you want to express that a particular outcome or state is directly dependent on specific factors or variables. Ensure that the relationship between the elements you are connecting is clear and logical to the reader.

Common error

While grammatically correct, using "this is a function of" too frequently in casual conversation or informal writing can make your language sound stilted or overly formal. Opt for simpler alternatives like "this depends on" or "this is because of" to maintain a natural tone.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "this is a function of" serves as a connector, indicating that a particular outcome or state is dependent on, or determined by, specific factors or variables. Ludwig AI confirms its correct usage in English, supported by numerous examples.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

40%

Science

25%

Academia

20%

Less common in

Formal & Business

10%

Encyclopedias

0%

Wiki

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "this is a function of" is a grammatically sound and common expression used to establish a cause-and-effect relationship or to indicate dependency between variables. According to Ludwig, it is considered correct. While versatile, its use is most appropriate in formal, academic, and professional settings, where clarity and precision are paramount. While alternatives exist to suit more informal contexts, understanding its correct application will enhance the sophistication and accuracy of your writing.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

this depends on

Changes the structure, presenting the dependence more directly.

this is determined by

Emphasizes the causal relationship and the aspect of being decided.

this results from

Shifts focus to the outcome of a process or a specific cause.

this is a consequence of

Highlights the effect that follows a particular action or condition.

this is due to

Implies a direct cause-and-effect relationship.

this is attributable to

Suggests that something can be credited or blamed on a specific cause.

this stems from

Indicates the origin or root cause of a particular situation.

this arises from

Suggests that something emerges or originates from a particular source.

this is related to

Highlights that there is a connection or association between items.

this correlates with

Shows that two or more things are closely connected and tend to occur together.

FAQs

How can I use "this is a function of" in a sentence?

Use "this is a function of" to indicate that something is dependent on or determined by specific factors. For instance, "The project's success "this is a function of" careful planning and execution."

What are some alternatives to "this is a function of"?

You can use alternatives like "this depends on", "this is determined by", or "this results from" depending on the specific nuance you want to convey.

When is it appropriate to use "this is a function of"?

It's appropriate in formal writing, academic contexts, and situations where you want to clearly express a dependency between variables or conditions. Avoid overusing it in casual conversation.

How does "this is a function of" differ from "this is due to"?

"This is a function of" suggests a broader relationship where multiple factors may contribute, whereas "this is due to" typically indicates a more direct and specific cause.