functioning as designed

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "functioning as designed" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe something that operates according to its intended specifications or purpose. Example: "The new software update is functioning as designed, providing users with improved performance and stability."

✓ Grammatically correct

Science

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

5 human-written examples

Even though a submerged structure is protected by a designed cathodic protection system, damage to the anodes or coating might result in the CP system no longer functioning as designed.

Corrosion Control for Offshore Structures Cathodic Protection and High Efficiency Coating

The building and heating, ventilating, and air conditioning (HVAC) system receive regular maintenance to ensure that all systems are consistently functioning as designed.

Environmental Health Perspectives

Increasingly, it has become a comprehensive and systematic process to verify and document the systems of a new or remodeled plant functioning as designed to meet the owner's requirements.

Procedia - Social and Behavioral Sciences

A Honeywell spokesperson stated that "Honeywell is not aware of any evidence that indicates that its transponder on the Embraer Legacy was not functioning as designed or that Honeywell was responsible for the accident".

Wikipedia

If dryer set points or air flows are not functioning as designed, the product web temperature can help identify this issue in real-time to enable in-process adjustments.

AAPS PharmSciTech

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

55 human-written examples

As well, Monte-Carlo methods are often required to determine the probability that the assembly functions as designed.

Mathematical and Computer Modelling

Looming over all those worries are doubts that the proposed technology could actually function as designed and provide an effective shield.

The New York Times

At this point, investigators believe that the tail functioned as designed, although the witness list for the hearing includes specialists who will testify about whether the design itself is adequate.

The New York Times

Mr. Museler said it appeared that the relays functioned as designed but that they had not been set so that the conditions just before the blackout would trip them, interrupting the flow of electricity.

The New York Times

He also said that the question now before the panel — the maintenance of the oil rig's blowout preventer — had been rendered irrelevant by a government report issued last month that found that the device functioned as designed but was not strong enough to control the runaway well.

The New York Times

Cookies for sites that you interact with function as designed, and ads placed by web publishers will appear normally.

TechCrunch

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When describing the performance of systems or products, use "functioning as designed" to clearly indicate that they are operating according to their intended specifications.

Common error

Don't assume that something "functioning as designed" is necessarily flawless. It only means it's working according to its intended specifications, which might have inherent limitations or be subject to external factors.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "functioning as designed" serves as a descriptive phrase, typically acting as an adjective complement to describe the state or performance of a system, component, or process. Ludwig AI confirms the phrase is usable in written English.

Expression frequency: Uncommon

Frequent in

Science

50%

News & Media

41%

Wiki

8%

Less common in

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "functioning as designed" is a descriptive term used to indicate that a system, component, or process is operating according to its intended specifications. As noted by Ludwig AI, it's grammatically correct and widely understood. While not exceedingly common, it appears in diverse contexts, particularly in scientific and news-related content. Alternatives like "operating as intended" or "working as expected" can be used, but the best choice depends on nuance. Remember, "functioning as designed" doesn't guarantee perfection, only adherence to the original design parameters.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

operating as intended

Emphasizes the operational aspect and the original intent.

working as expected

Focuses on the anticipated behavior or outcome.

performing as specified

Highlights adherence to documented specifications.

running according to plan

Implies a pre-defined sequence or process is being followed correctly.

in proper working order

Stresses the condition of being functional and operational.

meeting design criteria

Highlights that the original design goals are achieved.

performing to expectations

Similar to "working as expected" but with a slightly stronger emphasis on performance.

operating within parameters

Highlights that the operations are kept within the allowed boundaries.

fulfilling its purpose

Emphasizes the achievement of the intended goal or function.

serving its intended function

Focuses on the utility and role the subject is meant to play.

FAQs

How can I use "functioning as designed" in a sentence?

You can use "functioning as designed" to describe a system, component, or process that is operating according to its intended specifications. For example: "The safety mechanism is "operating as intended", functioning as designed to prevent accidents."

What are some alternatives to "functioning as designed"?

Alternatives include "operating as intended", "working as expected", or "performing as specified". The best choice depends on the specific context.

Is it redundant to say "functioning as designed correctly"?

Yes, it can be redundant. "Functioning as designed" already implies correctness according to the design. Unless you need to emphasize the correctness, "functioning as designed" is sufficient.

What does it mean when something is described as "not functioning as designed"?

It means the system or component is not operating according to its intended specifications. This could be due to a defect, damage, or incorrect setup. It indicates a deviation from the expected behavior.