ability to function

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "ability to function" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when discussing someone's or something's capacity to operate effectively or perform tasks. Example: "The patient's ability to function independently has improved significantly after therapy."

✓ Grammatically correct

General discussions about capabilities and performance

Medical and psychological evaluations

Technical specifications of systems and devices

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

No ability to function -- even think.

The Washington Post

Little by little, they lost their ability to function normally.

The New York Times

My father's ability to function without sleep was amazing.

The New York Times

If they aren't interfering with your ability to function, relax.

Harvard University

But these drugs deplete the dopamine pathway, disrupting the individual's ability to function.

The New York Times - Arts

She cares about the hosts and their ability to function successfully.

The Guardian - TV & Radio

He started to lose his ability to function, to think things clearly through," Alicia says.

The Guardian

Racism limits our ability to function effectively, or to utilise the talents evident in all communities.

The Guardian

But the ability to function in a constantly distracting world is bought at a real price.

The Guardian - Opinion

Luria describes this vivid daydreaming as fatal to Shereshevsky's ability to function in the adult world.

The New Yorker

Bipolar disorder causes wide swings in mood, energy and ability to function.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When describing a decline in someone's health or cognitive state, use "ability to function" to clearly communicate a loss of independence or normal activity.

Common error

While "ability to function" is generally acceptable, consider using more specific terms like "operational efficiency" or "performance capability" in formal reports to maintain a professional tone and precision.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "ability to function" acts as a noun phrase, typically functioning as the subject or object of a sentence. It describes the capacity or power to operate or perform in a given context. Ludwig AI confirms that the phrase is grammatically sound and widely used.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

50%

Science

20%

Academia

10%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

8%

Formal & Business

7%

Wiki

5%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "ability to function" is a versatile and grammatically correct noun phrase used to describe the capacity to operate effectively. Ludwig AI's analysis of numerous examples confirms its wide usage across diverse contexts, from news and media to academic and scientific writing. While generally neutral in register, more specific terms may be preferred in highly formal settings. When writing, consider the context to determine if alternatives like "capacity to operate" or "capability to perform" might offer greater precision. Keep in mind that the phrase is most effective when assessing someone's health, performance, or operational status, as confirmed by the provided real-world examples.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

capacity to operate

Focuses on the inherent potential or maximum capability.

capability to perform

Highlights the skill or talent needed to execute a task.

competence to execute

Emphasizes the qualified or trained ability to carry out specific actions.

potential for activity

Suggests an unrealized possibility for engagement or movement.

skill to maintain performance

Highlights sustained ability to achieve results over time.

facility to undertake tasks

Focuses on the ease and readiness to start and complete duties.

power to fulfill requirements

Emphasizes the strength or resources to meet necessary conditions.

aptitude for effective action

Highlights a natural or acquired talent for successful intervention.

resources for practical application

Emphasizes the available tools or support for real-world use.

talent for sustained work

Highlights an innate or developed gift for consistent productivity.

FAQs

How can I use "ability to function" in a sentence?

You can use "ability to function" to describe someone's or something's capacity to operate effectively, such as "The new medication improved the patient's "ability to function" independently".

What are some alternatives to "ability to function"?

Depending on the context, you can use alternatives like "capacity to operate", "capability to perform", or "competence to execute".

Is it better to say "ability to function effectively" or just "ability to function"?

While both are correct, "ability to function" is often sufficient. Adding "effectively" can emphasize the quality of the functioning but isn't always necessary. Using "ability to function" is more concise.

In technical writing, is "ability to function" appropriate?

Yes, but consider the audience and level of formality. In highly technical contexts, more precise terms related to performance metrics might be preferable, but "ability to function" remains broadly understandable.