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Justyna Jupowicz-Kozak

CEO of Professional Science Editing for Scientists @ prosciediting.com

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are working properly

Grammar usage guide and real-world examples

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "are working properly" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to indicate that something is functioning as intended or without issues. Example: "After the recent updates, all systems are working properly and efficiently."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

Sometimes both elevators stall, and sometimes both are working properly.

News & Media

The New York Times

But even when the systems are working properly, the police response times can be slow.

News & Media

The New York Times

(Some state websites are working properly and have already enrolled thousands of people).

News & Media

The New York Times

Nonetheless, he insisted, "These two organizations are working properly and normally on a daily basis".

News & Media

The New York Times

Make sure that windshield wiper blades, the heater and the defroster are working properly.

News & Media

The New York Times

"You have a feeling as to whether things are working properly or not," Millar explains.

Peake's will swap the old dosimeters for new ones and ensure they are working properly.

News & Media

The Guardian

The results show that both configurations are working properly to meet the demand.

If you've ever wanted to check the muscles in your downstairs are working properly, look no further.

News & Media

Independent

If belief-forming mechanisms in the subject are working properly, then they will reliably indicate external states of affairs.

News & Media

The Guardian

To prevent fires, make sure that electrical wiring, chimneys, wood stoves, and space heaters are working properly.

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Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When describing the status of a system or component, use "are working properly" to clearly communicate that it is functioning as intended. This phrase is easily understood and widely accepted across various contexts.

Common error

While it might be tempting to use more complex vocabulary, stick with "are working properly" for clarity and directness. Overly technical or jargon-heavy alternatives can confuse your audience.

Antonio Rotolo, PhD - Digital Humanist | Computational Linguist | CEO @Ludwig.guru

Antonio Rotolo, PhD

Digital Humanist | Computational Linguist | CEO @Ludwig.guru

Source & Trust

81%

Authority and reliability

4.5/5

Expert rating

Real-world application tested

Linguistic Context

The phrase "are working properly" primarily functions as a descriptive predicate. It attributes a state of correct operation to a subject, indicating that something is functioning as intended. As Ludwig AI confirms, the expression is correct and usable in written English.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

43%

Science

21%

Wiki

20%

Less common in

Formal & Business

3%

Academia

1%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "are working properly" is a grammatically sound and versatile expression used to indicate that something is functioning as intended. As Ludwig AI points out, it's a correct and useful phrase in English writing. Its neutral register and widespread application make it suitable for various contexts, from news reports to technical manuals. While alternatives exist, using "are working properly" ensures clarity and avoids unnecessary complexity. The high frequency of this phrase across diverse sources confirms its common usage and broad acceptance.

FAQs

How can I use "are working properly" in a sentence?

You can use "are working properly" to describe systems, devices, or processes that are functioning as intended. For example, "Ensure that all safety mechanisms "are working properly" before operating the machinery."

What are some alternatives to "are working properly"?

Alternatives include "are functioning correctly", "are operating as intended", or "are in good working order", depending on the specific context and desired level of formality.

Is it better to say "working properly" or "functioning properly"?

Both "working properly" and "functioning properly" are grammatically correct and convey a similar meaning. "Functioning properly" might be perceived as slightly more formal, but the choice often depends on personal preference and the specific context.

What does it mean when something is described as "working properly"?

When something is described as "working properly", it means that it is operating as intended, without any malfunctions or issues. It is performing its designed function effectively and reliably.

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Source & Trust

81%

Authority and reliability

4.5/5

Expert rating

Real-world application tested

Most frequent sentences: