useful role

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "useful role" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe a function or position that provides significant benefit or value in a particular context. Example: "The new software plays a useful role in streamlining our workflow and improving productivity."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Formal & Business

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

58 human-written examples

Dave Brubeck played a useful role in the fight against US segregation in the 1950s and 60s.

The Guardian - Music

Sweatshop monitors do have a useful role.

The New York Times - Magazine

He also said volunteer organizations played a useful role.

The New York Times

Realistically, that's about the most useful role they could play.

The New Yorker

Data mining, Mr. Louie said, can play a useful role.

The New York Times

Both derivatives and subprime mortgages can play a useful role.

The New York Times

If we ask you then assume you have a valid and useful role to play.

The Guardian

In terms of military tactics, as well, the Northern Alliance plays a useful role.

The New York Times

"Government plays a useful role, but it ought to be reformed.

The New Yorker

And governments can play a useful role in making sure that the labels are accurate.

The New York Times

And as a counter to nepotism, it can play a very useful role".

The Guardian

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When describing the function of something within a complex system, use "useful role" to highlight its positive contribution to the overall goal. For example, "Data analysis plays a "useful role" in identifying market trends."

Common error

Avoid using "useful role" when simpler words like "help" or "function" would suffice. Overusing formal phrases can make your writing sound unnecessarily complex. For instance, instead of saying 'This app plays a "useful role" in time management', consider 'This app helps with time management'.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "useful role" functions as a noun phrase that typically follows a verb such as "play", "have", or "serve". It denotes a beneficial or advantageous function within a given context. Ludwig examples show its use in diverse situations.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

53%

Science

24%

Wiki

9%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

2%

Formal & Business

10%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "useful role" is a common and grammatically correct phrase used to describe a function that provides benefit or value. Ludwig AI confirms its validity and provides numerous examples across various contexts. It is most frequently found in News & Media, Science, and Formal & Business writing. When using this phrase, ensure it accurately reflects a positive and helpful contribution, and avoid overuse in simple contexts where more direct language would suffice. Consider alternatives like "valuable contribution" or "helpful function" to add variety to your writing.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

valuable contribution

Emphasizes the positive impact and worth of the contribution.

helpful function

Focuses on the assistance and support provided by the function.

significant purpose

Highlights the importance and meaningfulness of the purpose.

important part

Underlines the crucial nature and necessity of the part.

constructive effect

Stresses the positive and beneficial outcome.

practical application

Highlights the real-world use and functionality.

advantageous position

Focuses on the favorable and beneficial placement.

effective mechanism

Emphasizes the efficiency and successful operation.

instrumental means

Highlights the crucial and enabling role.

positive influence

Stresses the beneficial and favorable impact.

FAQs

How can I use "useful role" in a sentence?

You can use "useful role" to describe the function of something that provides benefit or value. For example, "The new software plays a "useful role" in streamlining our workflow".

What can I say instead of "useful role"?

You can use alternatives like "valuable contribution", "helpful function", or "significant purpose" depending on the context.

When is it appropriate to use the phrase "useful role"?

The phrase "useful role" is appropriate when you want to emphasize the positive and beneficial contribution of something to a particular situation or system.

What's the difference between "useful role" and "important role"?

While both phrases indicate significance, "useful role" emphasizes practicality and helpfulness, whereas "important role" emphasizes the degree of necessity or consequence.