function smoothly

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "function smoothly" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it to indicate that something is working in the way it should and without any problem or issue. For example: "The new car runs and functions smoothly."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Academia

Formal & Business

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

57 human-written examples

That care does more than allow "households to function smoothly".

The New York Times

If a corrupt society is to function smoothly, each party has to do its part.

The New York Times

Instead, consider this as a philosophical exercise in helping our society to function smoothly.

The Guardian - Opinion

They function smoothly so that driver, passengers, and train gracefully move forward as one.

Harvard Business Review

Because the product is perishable, transportation to market must function smoothly to avoid losses.

Britannica

"Probably the most disappointing thing was we didn't function smoothly in the fourth quarter, in critical situations," Dungy said.

The New York Times - Sports

The poets are pros now, like the software coders, and they function smoothly as nodes in the great network.

The New York Times - Books

"But he's convinced he can harness the talents of the citizenry and make the city function smoothly again".

The New York Times

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

3 human-written examples

The Anglo-French axis is functioning smoothly.

The New York Times

The Schoolhouse cast functions smoothly as a true ensemble.

The New York Times

The food ration system that functioned smoothly under Saddam Hussein is breaking down, out here at least.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When describing systems or processes, use "function smoothly" to convey reliability and efficiency. For instance, "The new software allows the accounting department to function smoothly during tax season."

Common error

Avoid using "function smoothly" as a filler phrase in sentences where a more specific verb would be more impactful. Instead of "The project functioned smoothly", consider "The project progressed rapidly and efficiently."

Linguistic Context

The phrase "function smoothly" acts as an adverbial phrase modifying a verb, describing how an action is performed. As Ludwig AI states, it indicates that something is working as it should without problems. The examples provided show its use across various contexts to describe efficient operation.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

62%

Academia

19%

Formal & Business

7%

Less common in

Science

5%

Wiki

2%

Encyclopedias

1%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "function smoothly" is a grammatically correct and frequently used expression to describe the efficient and problem-free operation of a system, process, or organization. As confirmed by Ludwig AI, it's suitable for indicating that something works as intended, without issues. Its prevalence across news, academic, and business contexts underscores its versatility. While generally neutral in tone, it can lean towards professional settings. When using "function smoothly", remember to employ it in sentences where it adds significant meaning, avoiding overuse in simplistic constructions. Alternative phrases like "operate seamlessly" or "work efficiently" can add variety to your writing.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

operate seamlessly

Focuses on the absence of noticeable transitions or disruptions.

work efficiently

Emphasizes productivity and resource optimization.

run without a hitch

Highlights the complete absence of problems or obstacles.

proceed without difficulty

Underlines the ease and lack of impediment in the process.

perform effectively

Stresses the successful achievement of desired results.

execute flawlessly

Implies a perfect performance with no errors.

go like clockwork

Suggests a predictable and reliable operation.

move swimmingly

Conveys a sense of ease and grace in the operation.

tick over nicely

Describes a situation where something progresses without issues and gives a satisfying impression.

get on famously

Implies a mutual relationship, with an enthusiastic positive attribute and often used in spoken language.

FAQs

How can I use "function smoothly" in a sentence?

You can use "function smoothly" to describe a process, system, or organization that operates without problems or disruptions. For example, "The new management system allows the company to function smoothly, even during peak seasons."

What are some alternatives to "function smoothly"?

You can use alternatives like "operate seamlessly", "work efficiently", or "run without a hitch" depending on the context.

Is it better to say "function smoothly" or "functions smoothly"?

The correct form depends on the subject. Use "function smoothly" for plural subjects (e.g., "The teams function smoothly") and "functions smoothly" for singular subjects (e.g., "The department functions smoothly").

What is the difference between "function smoothly" and "operate efficiently"?

"Function smoothly" emphasizes the absence of problems or interruptions, while "operate efficiently" focuses on maximizing output with minimal waste. They are often interchangeable, but the best choice depends on the specific nuance you wish to convey.