functioning autonomously

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "functioning autonomously" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe a system, device, or individual that operates independently without external control or assistance. Example: "The robot is functioning autonomously, allowing it to complete tasks without human intervention."

✓ Grammatically correct

Science

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

4 human-written examples

The internet of things will help us by functioning autonomously, creating self-aware systems out of our existing real-world objects that will now monitor and improve our environment.

The Guardian

Where AI is about reproducing human cognition and functioning autonomously, IA is about supplementing and supporting it, leaving the intentionality of the human at the heart of it.

Forbes

The CCT were designed as exclusively ED based teams, functioning autonomously with a brief to facilitate safe early discharge to home of older people.

BMC Geriatrics

However, close examination of the DUSP6/ MKP- 3 promoter reveals no cognate binding sites for SRF, indicating that the Ets site is functioning autonomously.

Biochemical Journal

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

56 human-written examples

The recent discovery of these distinct and multipotent cell populations of the pilosebaceous unit provokes the question for their functional significance and if they function autonomously under physiological conditions during tissue homoeostasis.

EMBO Journal

Mast is being developed with research funding from the Ministry of Defence's science and technology laboratory, to explore how well such vessels function autonomously.

The Guardian

When engineered in plants, riboswitches can function autonomously to modulate gene expression.

Trends in Plant Science

There are intense rivalries between Shia militias who function autonomously of the state and Kurdish peshmerga and between these actors and the Iraqi security forces, which answer to the Baghdad government.

The Guardian - Opinion

Remote agents used in Deep Space Missions such as rovers or solar airplanes must function autonomously over a prolonged time during planetary exploration.

Electronic Notes in Theoretical Computer Science

Microgrids — localized power grids that can function autonomously when disconnected from the larger grid — are another option that city officials are looking at closely as a way to adapt to the changing climate.

Massachusetts Institute of Technology

As of the middle of last year, International was firmly under the central control of Conrad Black who, in turn, dealt with the company's four operating groups, which functioned autonomously of each other.

Harvard University

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When describing automated systems, use "functioning autonomously" to highlight their capacity to operate without human intervention. For example: "The drone is designed to be "functioning autonomously" for search and rescue missions."

Common error

Avoid using "functioning autonomously" when describing systems that still require some level of human oversight or intervention. Be precise about the degree of autonomy.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "functioning autonomously" serves as an adverbial phrase, modifying a verb to describe how something operates. It specifies the manner of operation, emphasizing independence from external control, as demonstrated by Ludwig's examples.

Expression frequency: Rare

Frequent in

Science

70%

News & Media

20%

Formal & Business

5%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

2%

Wiki

1%

Reference

2%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "functioning autonomously" is an adverbial phrase that describes independent operation without external control. While grammatically sound, according to Ludwig, its usage is relatively rare, predominantly appearing in scientific and news contexts. Related phrases include "operating independently" and "acting autonomously". When using this phrase, ensure it accurately reflects the level of independence and avoid overstating autonomy. Be cautious as well about potential redundancy when using phrases such as 'fully functioning autonomously'.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

operating independently

Emphasizes independence in operation, focusing on the lack of external control.

acting autonomously

Highlights the independent action or decision-making aspect.

independently operating

Reverses the word order for a slightly different emphasis on independent operation.

working independently

Focuses on the independent nature of the work being performed.

operating on its own

Simple and direct way to express independent operation.

self-governing

Implies a system or entity that governs itself without external influence.

self-regulating

Highlights the ability to regulate oneself without external intervention.

running without supervision

Specifies the lack of supervision as the key aspect of autonomy.

able to self-manage

Highlights the capability of self-management.

managing itself

Focuses on self-management as a form of autonomous functioning.

FAQs

What does "functioning autonomously" mean?

The phrase "functioning autonomously" describes something that operates independently, without external control or assistance. It highlights the ability to perform tasks or processes on its own.

How can I use "functioning autonomously" in a sentence?

You can use "functioning autonomously" to describe systems, devices, or individuals that operate independently. For instance, "The AI is "operating independently" and making decisions without human input."

What are some alternatives to "functioning autonomously"?

Alternatives include "operating independently", "acting autonomously", or "working independently". The best choice depends on the specific context.

Is it redundant to say 'fully functioning autonomously'?

While not strictly incorrect, 'fully "functioning autonomously"' can be redundant. Autonomy already implies a degree of completeness, so "functioning autonomously" usually suffices.