ancillary function

[æn'sɪləri 'fʌŋkʃən]
nounpl: ancillary functions
função auxiliar
1. A secondary or supporting function that assists in the operation of a primary system or process
The backup generator serves an ancillary function to the main power supply.
O gerador de backup serve uma função auxiliar para o fornecimento de energia principal.
2. In business and administration, a supporting service or activity that aids the core operations
Human resources is considered an ancillary function that supports the company's main business operations.
Recursos humanos é considerada uma função auxiliar que apoia as operações principais da empresa.
3. In healthcare and institutional settings, a support service that complements primary services
Maintenance and cleaning are ancillary functions in a hospital.
Manutenção e limpeza são funções auxiliares em um hospital.
In both American and Brazilian business contexts, ancillary functions are often undervalued despite their importance to organizational success. However, the term is widely used in professional settings, healthcare, and government institutions to distinguish between core services and supporting services.
Synonyms / Sinônimos
supporting functionauxiliary functionsecondary functionsupplementary functionadjunct function
Antonyms / Antônimos
primary functioncore functionmain functionprincipal function

Regional Variations

General Brazilian
função auxiliar
Standard usage in business and technical contexts
São Paulo
função de apoio
Commonly used in corporate and institutional environments
Rio de Janeiro
função auxiliar
Standard usage similar to general Brazilian Portuguese
Portugal
função complementar
Slightly preferred over 'auxiliar' in formal Portuguese contexts

Related Words

ancillary serviceauxiliarysupport systemsecondary rolecomplementary function

Related Idioms & Phrases

serve an ancillary function
perform ancillary duties
ancillary to the main operation
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