A functional design

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "A functional design" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it when referring to a design that effectively serves its intended purpose or function. Example: "The architect presented a functional design that maximizes space while ensuring comfort for the residents."

✓ Grammatically correct

Science

News & Media

Academia

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

25 human-written examples

A functional design involves organizing by knowledge, skills, or processes.

International Encyclopedia of the Social & Behavioral Sciences

A functional design must react correctly to a given stimulus.

Principles of Functional Verification

A functional design for a primitive brain.

Duke University

"But ice carving is now moving to more of a functional design".

The New York Times - Tech

Chen, Z. et al. Core-shell MoO3-MoS2 nanowires for hydrogen evolution: a functional design for electrocatalytic materials.

Nature

As we approached a functional design, we had some issues with wheel traction on the target unit car.

Cornell University

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

35 human-written examples

This chapter explores the mechanisms underlying motivation and self-regulation from a functional-design perspective.

Handbook of Self-Regulation

Roughly 3 by 9 feet, it had a smart, functional design: a frosted-glass wall brought in light, the shower was in a curtained-off corner, and there were ample hooks and shelves.

The New York Times - Travel

A purely functional design cannot be the basis of a trademark and trademark law should not be used to perpetuate monopoly rights enjoyed under now-expired patents," the court wrote in its decision.

The New York Times

To tackle this problem, we propose a generic constraint-based approach that is based on a comprehensive functional design model.

Computer-Aided Design

It featured straightened curves, flattened hills and a sleek, functional design for its toll plazas and the restaurants and gas stations at the service areas.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When describing a design, specify what makes it "functional". Provide concrete examples of how the design effectively serves its purpose. For example, instead of saying "The building has a functional design", say "The building has a functional design, with open floor plans to maximize workflow and natural light to reduce energy consumption."

Common error

Avoid using "functional design" as a generic compliment. Without specific details, it becomes a vague and meaningless statement. Always support your claim with evidence of the design's effectiveness.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "A functional design" primarily serves as a noun phrase, often functioning as a subject or object in a sentence. As Ludwig AI points out, the phrase is considered grammatically correct and widely applicable. It describes a design whose main purpose is to be effective and useful.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

Science

38%

News & Media

31%

Academia

12%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

4%

Wiki

4%

Formal & Business

4%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "A functional design" is a commonly used phrase that effectively conveys the idea of a design primarily focused on utility and efficiency. Ludwig AI confirms that the phrase is grammatically sound and versatile, fitting diverse contexts from scientific research to news reporting. While simple and effective, it's important to provide specifics when using the term to avoid vagueness. Alternatives like "practical design" or "efficient design" can offer nuanced ways to emphasize different aspects of the design's functionality.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

A practical design

Replaces "functional" with "practical", focusing on the usability and effectiveness of the design.

An efficient design

Highlights the design's ability to achieve its purpose without wasting resources.

A streamlined design

Emphasizes the simplicity and efficiency of the design, removing unnecessary elements.

An effective design

Focuses on the design's ability to produce the desired result or outcome.

A well-designed function

Inverts the structure to emphasize the function itself as being well-designed.

A purpose-built design

Stresses that the design was specifically created for a particular function.

A fit-for-purpose design

Indicates the design is suitable and appropriate for its intended use.

A utility-focused design

Highlights the design's primary concern with usefulness and practicality.

A working design

Simple alternative indicating that the design is operational and effective.

A performance-oriented design

Stresses the design's focus on achieving specific performance goals.

FAQs

How can I use "A functional design" in a sentence?

Use "A functional design" to describe something that is primarily designed to be useful and efficient. For example: "The new office space features "a functional design" to maximize productivity."

What are some alternatives to "A functional design"?

You can use alternatives like "a practical design", "an efficient design", or "an effective design" depending on the specific aspect you want to emphasize.

What does it mean when a design is described as "functional"?

When a design is described as "functional", it means that its primary purpose is to be useful and efficient. The aesthetics may be secondary to its usability and performance.

What's the difference between "A functional design" and "An aesthetic design"?

"A functional design" prioritizes utility and efficiency, while "An aesthetic design" focuses on visual appeal and beauty. Some designs can balance both, but often one aspect is emphasized over the other.