1
Core action
Function, operate, or be used in the role named after the phrase.
Example
The untreated plots serve as a control group.
serve as
/sɜːv æz/ · surv AZfunction phrase
Function, operate, or be used in the role named after the phrase.
Use serve as to express this relationship precisely: function, operate, or be used in the role named after the phrase.
What serve as Really Means
The word becomes easier to use when its closely related senses are separated and compared.
2
Common construction
Use this expression in its normal grammatical frame so the relationship between the surrounding ideas remains explicit.
Example
Imported beads may serve as evidence of exchange.
3
Reasoning effect
It tells the reader how to interpret the timing, scope, evidence, contrast, condition, or consequence in the statement.
Example
The structure served as a temporary shelter.
Use serve as Naturally
Notice how the surrounding noun or clause reveals the exact shade of meaning.
The untreated plots serve as a control group.
Imported beads may serve as evidence of exchange.
The structure served as a temporary shelter.
Precision Matters
Serve as overlaps with several common words, but each carries a different emphasis.
serve as
vs.Means function, operate, or be used in the role named after the phrase.
as a means of
Means as a method or instrument for achieving a purpose.
serve as
vs.Means function, operate, or be used in the role named after the phrase.
be representative of
Means be typical of, or fairly reflect, a larger group or category.
serve as
vs.Means function, operate, or be used in the role named after the phrase.
contribute to
Means help cause, support, or advance an outcome without necessarily being its sole cause.
serve as
vs.Means function, operate, or be used in the role named after the phrase.
characteristic of
Means typical of or distinctive to a person, group, period, or category.
Test serve as in Context
The sample functions in the role of a baseline.
1
In the experiment, the unheated sample will ___ the baseline for comparison.