which functions as

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "which functions as" is correct and usable in written English.
It is typically used in a sentence to explain how something works or is used. For example: "The clutch is an important part of the car's engine, which functions as a disconnect between the engine and transmission."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Encyclopedias

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

Outside is South Oxford Park, which functions as a backyard.

The New York Times

In still and video cameras, light is captured by a C.C.D., which functions as digital film.

The New York Times

These are then stored in a "wallet", which functions as a sort of online bank account.

The Guardian - Business

In Gudermes, which functions as the administrative capital of the region, the Russian military was more successful.

The New York Times

It was William Reynolds, captain of a 1989 replica of Hudson's Half Moon, which functions as a floating museum.

The New York Times

The animal moves by means of its crest, which functions as a sail.

Encyclopedia Britannica

The software, developed by FlashPoint Technology, based in San Jose, Calif., works with the company's Digita technology, which functions as an operating system for digital cameras.

The New York Times - Tech

Before leaving the government, he was director of the Defense Advanced Research Program Agency, which functions as the Pentagon's venture capital arm.

The New York Times

Ms. Anderson, 45, is the proprietor of Balance, which functions as equal parts hair salon, open mike coffeehouse and meet-and-greet joint.

The New York Times

The other half has been told by Eric Schlosser in Fast Food Nation, which functions as a kind of dialectical companion to Kamps book.

The New York Times - Books

Both Mrs. Clinton and Mr. Lazio have received leadership awards from the organization, which functions as a national clearinghouse for information on the arts.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "which functions as" to clearly define the role or purpose of a noun within a sentence. It provides specific context and avoids ambiguity.

Common error

Avoid using "which functions as" in very simple sentences where a more direct verb would suffice. For instance, instead of "This room which functions as a library", simply say "This room is a library".

Linguistic Context

The phrase "which functions as" introduces a relative clause that specifies the role, purpose, or operation of the preceding noun. It provides additional information, explaining how something works or what its intended function is. Ludwig AI confirms its usability in English.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

52%

Science

36%

Wiki

5%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

3%

Formal & Business

2%

Reference

1%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "which functions as" is a versatile and grammatically sound way to specify the role or purpose of a noun within a sentence. As confirmed by Ludwig AI, it is widely used across diverse contexts, including news, science, and encyclopedic entries. When writing, use this phrase to clearly define a noun's function, but avoid redundancy in simpler sentences. Consider alternatives such as "which serves as" or "which acts as" for varied expression. This phrase is an effective way to clarify meaning and enhance understanding for your audience.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

which serves as

Replaces "functions" with "serves", emphasizing the role or purpose.

which acts as

Substitutes "functions" with "acts", focusing on the action or behavior.

which operates as

Replaces "functions" with "operates", highlighting the operational aspect.

which works as

Substitutes "functions" with "works", emphasizing the effectiveness or utility.

which is employed as

Uses "employed" instead of "functions", highlighting a deliberate use or application.

which is utilized as

Similar to 'employed', but emphasizes the intentional use.

which is defined as

Focuses on defining the essence or nature of something.

which is known as

Highlights the recognition or common understanding of something.

which fills the role of

More explicitly states that something is taking on a particular role.

which takes on the function of

More verbose but emphasizes assuming a particular function.

FAQs

How to use "which functions as" in a sentence?

Use "which functions as" to specify the role or purpose of a noun within a sentence. For example, "The appendix, "which functions as" a reservoir for beneficial bacteria, may help repopulate the gut after illness".

What can I say instead of "which functions as"?

You can use alternatives like "which serves as", "which acts as", or "which operates as" depending on the specific nuance you want to convey.

Is it better to use "that functions as" or "which functions as"?

In restrictive clauses (essential to the sentence's meaning), "that" is often preferred in American English. In non-restrictive clauses (adding extra information), "which" is correct. However, ""which functions as"" is typically non-restrictive.

What's the difference between "which functions as" and "which is used as"?

"Which functions as" implies a natural or designed role, while "which is used as" indicates a purpose assigned by someone or something. For example, 'a lung, "which functions as" a respiratory organ' versus 'a hammer, which is used as a tool'.