function

柯林斯词典

1. N-COUNT The function of something or someone is the useful thing that they do or are intended to do. 作用
The main function of the investment banks is to raise capital for industry. 各投資銀行的主要作用是爲産業籌集資金。
2. N-COUNT A function is a large formal dinner or party. 宴會; 社交聚會
...a private function hosted by one of his students. …由他的一個學生做東的一場私人宴會。
3. V-I If a machine or system is functioning, it is working or operating. 運轉
The authorities say the prison is now functioning normally. 儅侷稱該監獄現在在正常運轉。
4. V-I If someone or something functions as a particular thing, they do the work or fulfil the purpose of that thing. (作爲某物) 起作用
On weekdays, one third of the room functions as workspace. 在工作日，這個房間的三分之一充儅工作場所。

Should the function of children's television be to entertain or to enlighten ?
Surely the function of the law is to protect everyone's rights .
Do the lights on this cassette deck have any useful function or are they just for show?
Zoos fulfil an important function in the protection of rare species .
He performs several important functions within the organization .