functional

USAGE SUMMARY

The word 'functional' is correct and usable in written English.
You can use this word to describe something as practical and efficient, especially for its intended purpose. For example, "This kitchen is very functional with its modern appliances and plenty of counter space."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Formal & Business

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

North Korea's state media often boasts of successful military and space accomplishments, including the launch of a functional communications satellite, which are not independently verified by outside experts.

The Guardian

British delight at having scooped the Americans was matched by the NSA's desire to get its hands on the project; an internal US guide to using the system, which became fully functional in 2011, described it as "an exciting opportunity to get direct access to enormous amounts of GCHQ's special source data".

The Guardian

But that's just functional communication, whereas we want to foster real conversations.

The Guardian - Opinion

Above all, it needs to be functional, in a neutral colour match to your skin tone.

The Guardian - Lifestyle

The lodges are basic but functional, with tongue-and-groove walls and lots of light.

The Guardian - Travel

7. A functional skip navigation link has been added at the top of each page.

The Guardian

On the functional side, there are articles and videos on how to style key pieces and update your wardrobe.

The Guardian

A flume, now covered by a jetty walkway that leads to the building, was used, albeit rarely in its functional phase, to bring water from the lake.

The Guardian - Travel

I in no way doubt that this is a clear attempt to prevent the re-election of Mr Blatter as president of Fifa, and that it's a gross violation of the functional principles of international organizations".

The Guardian - Sport

The cruelest part is they insinuate that I might be a bit of a loser who hasn't found my path in life, when in fact I'm a perfectly functional, happy person, contributing to society by working and paying taxes.

The Guardian - Lifestyle

Of course Rooney hasn't been afforded the best conditions in which to build his season, having been deployed in the centre of midfield in Louis van Gaal's ludicrous attempts to shoehorn every attacking player at his disposal into a functional team.

The Guardian - Sport

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When describing designs or systems, use "functional" to emphasize their practical application and utility. For instance, "The software's functional design prioritizes ease of use."

Common error

Avoid using "functional" as a generic term for anything that works. Be specific about how it is functional and what purpose it serves to enhance clarity.

Linguistic Context

The adjective "functional" primarily serves to describe nouns, indicating that they are designed or able to perform a specific function effectively. Ludwig AI confirms its wide applicability, seen in examples ranging from "functional communication" to "functional teams".

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

38%

Formal & Business

31%

Science

15%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

5%

Reference

5%

Wiki

1%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The word "functional" is a versatile adjective used to describe something that is practical, effective, and able to fulfill its intended purpose. Ludwig AI validates that it appears across various domains, from news and media to formal business and scientific contexts. It's crucial to use "functional" with specificity, avoiding vague applications. Alternatives like "operational", "utilitarian", and "practical" can provide nuanced precision depending on the desired emphasis. With a high expert rating and very common usage, mastering the use of "functional" enhances clarity and precision in both writing and speech.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

operational

Emphasizes the capacity to operate or be used.

in working order

Highlights the state of being able to perform its intended function.

utilitarian

Focuses on the practical use and purpose of something.

serviceable

Suggests adequacy for a particular purpose or need.

practical

Indicates suitability and effectiveness in real-world situations.

effective

Highlights the ability to produce a desired result or effect.

performing well

Indicates that it is working at a satisfactory level.

in good condition

Highlights that something is in a good state.

fit for purpose

Means good enough to be used for its intended function.

efficient

Implies achieving maximum productivity with minimum wasted effort or expense.

FAQs

How to use "functional" in a sentence?

You can use "functional" to describe something that is practical and effective. For example, "The new office layout is highly functional, allowing for better collaboration."

What can I say instead of "functional"?

You can use alternatives like "operational", "utilitarian", or "practical" depending on the context.

Which is correct, "functional design" or "function design"?

"Functional design" is correct when referring to a design that emphasizes practicality and usability. "Function design" is less common and might be misinterpreted.

What's the difference between "functional" and "operational"?

"Functional" generally describes something that serves its purpose effectively, while "operational" specifically refers to being in working order or ready for use.