In the Management of Value (MoV) methodology, Function Analysis is a core technique used to understand what a project, product, or service does. To ensure clarity and focus on purpose, functions are consistently described using a two-word phrase: an active verb and a measurable noun. The verb describes the action, and the noun describes the object of that action. This verb-noun combination precisely defines the function's purpose, separating the 'what' (the function) from the 'how' (the solution). For example, "transmit data" or "support structure".

A. A verb alone is incomplete; it describes an action but not what the action is being performed on (e.g., "transmit" what?).

B. An adjective and a verb do not form the standard syntax for defining a function; this combination is grammatically unconventional for this purpose.

D. An adjective and a noun describe a quality or an object (e.g., "secure data"), not the action or function itself (e.g., "secure data").

1. AXELOS. (2010). Management of Value. The Stationery Office. Chapter 5, Section 5.3.1, 'Describe the functions', Paragraph 2 states, "Functions are best described by two words: an active verb and a measurable noun."

2. Jenner, S. (2014). Managing Benefits: Optimizing the Return from Investments (2nd ed.). The Stationery Office. Chapter 10, 'Value Management', Section 10.5.2, 'Function analysis', notes that a key step is to "Describe the functions using a verb and a noun."