essential function

[ɪˈsenʃəl ˈfʌŋkʃən]
nounpl: essential functions
função essencial
1. A fundamental task or responsibility that is critical to the operation of a position, organization, or system
The essential functions of the manager include budget planning and team supervision.
As funções essenciais do gerente incluem planejamento orçamentário e supervisão da equipe.
2. In legal context (particularly under the ADA), the core duties of a job that cannot be eliminated or significantly modified
According to the job description, communication with clients is an essential function of the sales position.
De acordo com a descrição do cargo, a comunicação com clientes é uma função essencial da posição de vendas.
3. A vital service or capability that must be maintained for continuity of operations
During the emergency, the hospital prioritized essential functions such as emergency care and critical surgeries.
Durante a emergência, o hospital priorizou funções essenciais como atendimento de emergência e cirurgias críticas.
This term is particularly important in both American and Brazilian employment law. In the USA, it gained prominence through the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA), where essential functions determine whether workplace accommodations are required. In Brazil, it is commonly used in employment contracts and organizational documents to clarify job responsibilities and distinguish them from ancillary tasks.
Synonyms / Sinônimos
core responsibilityprimary dutycritical functionkey taskvital role
Antonyms / Antônimos
peripheral functionsecondary dutynon-essential taskancillary responsibility

Regional Variations

General Brazilian
função essencial
Standard term used in HR and legal contexts
São Paulo
função essencial
Commonly used in corporate and employment law documents
Portugal
função essencial
Used similarly in Portuguese employment law and organizational contexts
Rio de Janeiro
função essencial
Standard usage in business and legal documentation

Related Words

job descriptioncore competencieskey performance indicatorsdutyresponsibilitycapabilityaccommodation

Related Idioms & Phrases

the bottom line
core of the matter
bread and butter
sine qua non
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