are functioning properly

USAGE SUMMARY

"are functioning properly" is correct and can be used in written English.
You can use it to describe a mechanical or digital device that is working correctly. For example: "The office printer and computer are functioning properly."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

46 human-written examples

Transponders must be regularly calibrated and checked to make sure they are functioning properly.

The New York Times

Colorado, for example, relies on state assessments of whether existing regulations are functioning properly.

The Guardian

On the contrary, he added, the absence of trials would be a success because it means national institutions are functioning properly and are handling these cases themselves.

The New York Times

Under federal regulations, miners are supposed to visually inspect oxygen packs to see whether the color-coded indicator shows that they are functioning properly.

The New York Times

Another Aprilaire product -- CO Detectagas -- can be used by homeowners who want to make sure their existing carbon monoxide detectors are functioning properly.

The New York Times

This ensures that values are objective and comparable and is therefore a good way of ensuring transparency when markets are functioning properly.

The Guardian - Opinion

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

12 human-written examples

Not a single oil refinery is functioning properly.

The Economist

Initial tests concluded that the packs were functioning properly, Mr. Fillpot said.

The New York Times

No such systems were functioning properly at the beginning of the Ebola epidemic.

The New Yorker

The background check can take seconds when the system is functioning properly.

The New York Times

By 7 p.m., Mr. Clendenin said, the two overhead power lines were functioning properly again.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When describing systems or processes, use "are functioning properly" to assure the audience that mechanisms are operating as designed, indicating reliability and expected outcomes.

Common error

Instead of saying "checks are being performed to ensure systems are functioning properly", opt for the active voice: "technicians check the systems to ensure they are functioning properly". This makes your writing more direct and engaging.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "are functioning properly" serves as a descriptive statement, indicating that something is operating as intended. As evidenced by Ludwig AI, this phrase is widely used in various contexts to convey correct and reliable performance.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

46%

Science

39%

Wiki

13%

Less common in

Formal & Business

1%

Encyclopedias

1%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "are functioning properly" is a common and versatile expression used to describe something that is working as intended. As Ludwig AI confirms, its grammatical structure is correct, and it finds frequent use across various fields, especially in news, science, and general reference materials. When aiming for more formal language, alternatives like "are operating correctly" or "are in proper working order" can be considered. Remember to use the active voice when possible for clearer communication, and specify "properly" for the sake of avoiding ambiguity. With its widespread applicability, "are functioning properly" is a valuable phrase for expressing that systems, devices, or processes are operating reliably and correctly.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

are operating correctly

Replaces "functioning" with "operating" while maintaining the focus on correct performance.

are working correctly

Substitutes "functioning" with the more general term "working" indicating proper operation.

are in proper working order

Emphasizes the state of being in good condition for work, adding a bit more formality.

are running smoothly

Focuses on the absence of problems during operation, suggesting efficiency.

are performing as expected

Highlights that the performance meets the anticipated standards or requirements.

are working efficiently

Highlights the efficiency aspect of the operation, focusing on minimal waste or optimal output.

are up to par

Uses an idiomatic expression to indicate that performance is satisfactory or meeting expectations.

are in good shape

Indicates that something is in a suitable condition for its intended purpose, with a more general sense.

are serving their purpose

Focuses on whether the entities are fulfilling their intended function or role.

are fulfilling their function

Similar to 'serving their purpose', it emphasizes the accomplishment of the intended role or task.

FAQs

How can I rephrase "are functioning properly" to sound more formal?

In formal contexts, consider using phrases like "are operating correctly" or "are in proper working order" to maintain a professional tone.

What does it mean when something "is functioning properly"?

It means that the entity in question is working in the way it was designed to work, meeting expectations and fulfilling its intended purpose. It suggests reliability and correct operation.

Is it always necessary to specify "properly" when saying something is "functioning"?

While not always necessary, adding "properly" emphasizes that the functioning is not just happening, but happening in the correct and intended manner. Omitting it might leave room for ambiguity.

What are some alternative phrases to "are functioning properly" in technical writing?

In technical documents, you might use phrases such as "are performing as expected", "are meeting specifications", or "are operating within parameters" for greater precision.