What is the difference between 'Function' and 'role'?

Answer 1

Something's function is what its used for. Example: Your thumb's function is to allow you to grip things with your hand. Somethings role is its purpose. Example: Your thumb is an evolutionary trait due to the need to survive, it's role is to let humans and primates get one step ahead of the other animals on the Earth due to the need to survive and carry on the species.

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Think as the "Function" as an action; something that is used, or that you will utilize to 'do' something; eg. complete a manuever or task. And think of "role" as to what is being achieved; the contribution for the desired 'act' or function.

function:

how something can be used/is used; its value or significance

-- as to --

role:

what something does/is doing; in contribution thereof/ the obligations, duty,

or purpose for the overall achievement

Example:

A USB connection cable for your Android phone functions as the communication

transport link for data transfer between that device and your PC. The required software plays a role by providing the necessary operating system applications for the management of that data.

Answer 2

A role is a function or part performed especially in a particular operation or process or context.

A function involves the things a person does in performing his/her role, for example, my role as teacher involves the following functions: instructing, nurturing, listening, encouraging, disciplining and empathizing with students.
what is the different between role and function

Answer 3

Something's function is what its used for. Example: Your thumb's function is to allow you to grip things with your hand. Somethings role is its purpose. Example: Your thumb is an evolutionary trait due to the need to survive, it's role is to let humans and primates get one step ahead of the other animals on the Earth due to the need to survive and carry on the species.

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Think as the "Function" as an action; something that is used, or that you will utilize to 'do' something; eg. complete a manuever or task. And think of "role" as to what is being achieved; the contribution for the desired 'act' or function.

function:

how something can be used/is used; its value or significance

-- as to --

role:

what something does/is doing; in contribution thereof/ the obligations, duty,

or purpose for the overall achievement

Example:

A USB connection cable for your Android phone functions as the communication

transport link for data transfer between that device and your PC. The required software plays a role by providing the necessary operating system applications for the management of that data.