useful function

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "useful function" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe a function or feature that provides practical benefits or serves a significant purpose in a particular context. Example: "The software includes a useful function that allows users to easily track their expenses."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Academia

Encyclopedias

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

I don't want to give -- or receive -- anything that, while momentarily amusing, fails to provide a useful function, or on the other hand is functional but charmless.

The New York Times

A useful function of the D.I.Y.

The New Yorker

It also has the useful function of galvanising the action.

The Guardian - Books

It's made of concrete, it's inexpensive and, worst of all, it serves a useful function.

The Guardian - Opinion

Traditional structures and interests in society are regarded as mere impediments, with no useful function.

The New Yorker

Derivatives are contracts intended to perform the financially useful function of spreading risk.

The New Yorker

Conflict also has the useful function of driving traffic to his sites.

The New Yorker

But some public policy analysts say that the advocate can serve a useful function.

The New York Times

The capture by the executive class of so much wealth performs no useful function.

The Guardian - Opinion

"Swear words perform a useful function in conversation, to shock or engage.

The New Yorker

Yet their most useful function in a warming world is to absorb carbon and store it.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When describing software or tools, specify the "useful function" in terms of the user's benefit; for example, "This feature provides a useful function by automating report generation."

Common error

Avoid using "useful function" for trivial or self-evident features. Instead, reserve it for capabilities that significantly enhance usability or performance.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "useful function" primarily serves as a descriptive element, typically functioning as a noun phrase that characterizes a particular feature, process, or component. As Ludwig AI confirms, this phrase is grammatically correct and frequently used. Examples from Ludwig show it describing diverse topics from software features to societal roles.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

60%

Academia

20%

Encyclopedias

10%

Less common in

Formal & Business

5%

Science

3%

Wiki

2%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "useful function" is a common and grammatically sound way to describe something that provides practical benefits or serves a significant purpose. As Ludwig AI highlights, this phrase appears frequently across various contexts, including news, academia, and encyclopedias. When using "useful function", be specific about the benefits it provides and avoid redundancy by focusing on its unique capabilities. Alternatives such as "practical feature" or "helpful capability" can add nuance to your writing. Remember to reserve this phrase for features or capabilities that significantly enhance usability or performance and according to examples across Ludwig the phrase is frequently used to describe tools or capabilities.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

practical feature

Replaces "function" with "feature", emphasizing a specific capability or aspect.

helpful capability

Substitutes "useful" with "helpful" and "function" with "capability", focusing on assistance provided.

valuable asset

Replaces "function" with "asset", highlighting the importance and worth of something.

beneficial role

Emphasizes the positive impact and contribution instead of just utility.

advantageous purpose

Highlights the benefit or advantage provided by the function or purpose.

serviceable feature

Indicates that the feature is functional and ready to provide service.

effective mechanism

Focuses on the efficiency and success of the function as a process or system.

functional component

Stresses that the part is working or is in operation and is a part of the entirety.

practical application

Highlights the real-world use or implementation of the function.

instrumental element

Suggests that the element is key to achieving a particular outcome.

FAQs

How can I replace "useful function" in my writing?

Consider alternatives such as "practical feature", "helpful capability", or "valuable asset" depending on the nuance you want to convey. For example, you could say a tool offers a "practical feature" or a "helpful capability".

Is it redundant to say "very useful function"?

While not grammatically incorrect, "very useful function" can sometimes be redundant. Instead, focus on specifying the degree or type of usefulness. Consider rephrasing to emphasize the specific benefit the "useful function" provides.

How do I describe a "useful function" in technical documentation?

In technical documentation, clearly state the purpose, inputs, and outputs of the "useful function". Use precise language to avoid ambiguity and provide examples of how it can be used effectively. For instance, instead of stating simply this is a "useful function", give a specific example about the tool functionality.

What's the difference between a "useful function" and a "necessary function"?

A "useful function" provides a benefit or advantage, while a "necessary function" is essential or required. A necessary function is crucial for the system to operate, but a "useful function" simply improves it.