To write $y$ as a function of $x$, we will follow these steps:

1. Start with the given equations:

   • $y = -4a - 4$
   • $a = -3x + 4$

2. Substitute the expression for $a$ into the equation for $y$: $y = -4a - 4$ Replace $a$ with $-3x + 4$: $y = -4(-3x + 4) - 4$

3. Simplify the equation: First, distribute the $-4$ through the parentheses: $y = (-4)(-3x) + (-4)(4) - 4$ Simplify each term: $y = 12x - 16 - 4$

4. Combine like terms: $y = 12x - 20$

Final Answer:

The function $y$ in terms of $x$ is: $y = 12x - 20$

Let me know if you want further clarification or details!

Related Questions:

1. How would the solution change if $a$ had a different form?
2. Can you graph $y = 12x - 20$? What does it look like?
3. How do you check if the substitution was correct?
4. What happens if we add a new variable $z = x + a$ to the system?
5. How would you express $x$ as a function of $y$ instead?

Tip:

When substituting, always simplify carefully step by step to avoid errors in algebraic manipulations!