Dictionary
English - Japanese

Function

ˈfəŋ(k)ʃ(ə)n
Extremely common
700 - 800
700 - 800
The word frequency and importance index indicates how often a word appears in a given language. The smaller the number, the more frequently the word is used. The most frequently used words typically range from about 1 to 4000. This importance index helps you focus on the most useful words during your language learning process.

機能 (きのう), 作用 (さよう), 役割 (やくわり), 関数 (かんすう), 行事 (ぎょうじ)

Function meanings in Japanese

機能 (きのう)

Example:
This app has many useful functions.
このアプリには多くの便利な機能があります。
The primary function of the engine is to provide power.
エンジンの主な機能は、パワーを提供することです。
Usage: formal/informalContext: Technology, engineering, general use
Note: Used to describe the purpose or capability of an object or system.

作用 (さよう)

Example:
The drug has a calming function.
その薬は鎮静作用があります。
The function of this hormone is to regulate metabolism.
このホルモンの作用は新陳代謝を調整することです。
Usage: formalContext: Medicine, biology
Note: Often used in scientific contexts to describe the operational effects of substances or processes.

役割 (やくわり)

Example:
In the project, each member has a specific function.
プロジェクトでは、各メンバーに特定の役割があります。
His function in the team is to lead the discussions.
彼のチームにおける役割は議論をリードすることです。
Usage: informalContext: Teamwork, social settings
Note: Refers to the role or duty someone has in a group or organization.

関数 (かんすう)

Example:
In mathematics, a function is a relation between a set of inputs and outputs.
数学では、関数は入力と出力の間の関係です。
You can define a function in this programming language.
このプログラミング言語で関数を定義できます。
Usage: formalContext: Mathematics, computer science
Note: Specifically used in mathematical and programming contexts to refer to a relationship or operation.

行事 (ぎょうじ)

Example:
The function will take place in the main hall.
行事はメインホールで行われます。
We are organizing a function to celebrate the anniversary.
記念日を祝うための行事を企画しています。
Usage: formalContext: Events, celebrations
Note: Refers to a formal event or gathering.

Function's synonyms

purpose

Purpose refers to the reason for which something is done or created.
Example: The purpose of this meeting is to discuss our new project.
Note: While function focuses on the action or role something performs, purpose emphasizes the reason behind that action or role.

role

Role refers to the function or part played by a person or thing in a particular situation.
Example: In this play, the actor's role is to portray the villain.
Note: Role is more specific and often refers to a character or position someone or something takes on.

use

Use refers to the way in which something is intended to be employed or operated.
Example: The primary use of this tool is for cutting wood.
Note: Use can imply a more practical application or utility compared to the broader concept of function.

operation

Operation refers to the way in which a machine or system functions or is controlled.
Example: The operation of this machine requires careful attention to safety procedures.
Note: Operation often implies a more mechanical or systematic process compared to the general concept of function.

Function expressions, common phrases

Serve a function

To fulfill a specific purpose or role.
Example: The new software serves a function in streamlining our workflow.
Note: The original word 'function' refers to the purpose or role itself, while this phrase emphasizes the action of fulfilling that purpose.

In good working order

To be in a functional or operational state.
Example: The machine is not functioning properly; it's not in good working order.
Note: While 'function' refers to the purpose or role, this phrase emphasizes the state of being operational or functional.

Form and function

The combination of aesthetic appeal and practical utility.
Example: The design of the building balances form and function beautifully.
Note: This phrase highlights the relationship between the visual appearance (form) and the purpose or usefulness (function) of something.

Fit for purpose

Suitable or appropriate for the intended use.
Example: The old equipment is no longer fit for purpose; we need to upgrade.
Note: While 'function' refers to the role or purpose, this phrase emphasizes the suitability or appropriateness for that purpose.

Serve a dual purpose

To have two different functions or uses.
Example: The multipurpose tool serves a dual purpose as a screwdriver and a bottle opener.
Note: This phrase emphasizes the versatility of having two distinct functions or purposes.

Off function

To deactivate or stop the operation of something.
Example: Make sure to turn off the power using the off function before leaving.
Note: Unlike the general sense of 'function,' this phrase specifically refers to the action of deactivating or stopping the operation of a device or system.

Critical function

An essential or crucial role that contributes significantly to a process or system.
Example: The cooling system performs a critical function in preventing overheating.
Note: While 'function' can refer to any role or purpose, this phrase emphasizes the importance and indispensable nature of the role being described.

Function everyday (slang) expressions

Func

Func is a casual abbreviation for function, often used to refer to the main purpose or operation of something.
Example: Let's cut to the func of the issue and solve it efficiently.
Note: Func is a shortened version of function and is used informally in conversation.

Fu

Fu is a slang term for function, indicating the usefulness or effectiveness of something.
Example: I can't believe the fu of this new app, it's amazing!
Note: Fu is a shortened and more colloquial form of function.

Run

Run is commonly used to describe the function of software or programs running effectively or operating as intended.
Example: The app needs an update to run smoothly.
Note: Run specifically refers to the operation or execution of a program or application.

Job

Job is often used to inquire about the specific function or purpose of something.
Example: What's the job of this button on the remote?
Note: Job is a more casual term and is used informally to refer to a task, role, or purpose of an object or device.

Task

Task is employed to describe a specific function or duty assigned to a device or system.
Example: The task of this device is to monitor the system's performance.
Note: Task focuses on the specific assignment or responsibility of a function rather than its overall purpose.

Function - Examples

Function is a fundamental concept in programming.
The main function of the heart is to pump blood.
The medication has a calming effect on the patient.

Function grammar

Function - Noun (Noun) / Noun, singular or mass (Noun, singular or mass)
Lemma: function
Conjugations
Noun, plural (Noun, plural): functions, function
Noun, singular or mass (Noun, singular or mass): function
Verb, past tense (Verb, past tense): functioned
Verb, gerund or present participle (Verb, gerund or present participle): functioning
Verb, 3rd person singular present (Verb, 3rd person singular present): functions
Verb, base form (Verb, base form): function
Verb, non-3rd person singular present (Verb, non-3rd person singular present): function
Syllables, Separation and Stress
function Contains 2 syllables: func • tion
Phonetic transcription: ˈfəŋ(k)-shən
func tion , ˈfəŋ(k) shən (The red syllable is stressed)

Function - Importance and usage frequency

The word frequency and importance index indicates how often a word appears in a given language. The smaller the number, the more frequently the word is used. The most frequently used words typically range from about 1 to 4000.
function: 700 - 800 (Extremely common).
This importance index helps you focus on the most useful words during your language learning process.
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