functioning in

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "functioning in" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it when describing something that is actively being done by someone or something. For example: The patient is currently functioning in the ICU.

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Formal & Business

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

59 human-written examples

There are two truths functioning in parallel here.

The New York Times

They are functioning in a much larger institutional culture.

The New York Times

But it is barely functioning in the state anyway.

The Economist

There is only one major ring functioning in Barcelona, with just 15 fights a year.

The Guardian

Corporate bond markets around the world are functioning in large part because of government guarantees.

The New York Times

The city government is not functioning in a rational and coherent way".

The New York Times

But even now, with Northern Ireland functioning in relative peace, the love-in continues.

The Guardian - Opinion

And the Harakat ul-Mujahedeen, or Fighters Movement, is still functioning in Pakistan.

The New York Times

When I became mayor of Tirana, there were only 78 lights functioning in the streets.

The Guardian - Arts

It is not functioning in a way that necessarily reflects economic reality.

The Guardian

University City, which began functioning in 1954, was designed to bring together the scattered academic departments.

The New York Times - Travel

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "functioning in" to describe the active operation of a system, organization, or individual within a specific context. It suggests that something is not just present, but actively working or performing a role.

Common error

Avoid using "functioning in" as a generic substitute for more descriptive verbs. Instead of saying "The department is functioning in a new way", specify what the department is doing: "The department is operating with a new structure."

Linguistic Context

The phrase "functioning in" primarily serves as a verb phrase indicating the manner or environment in which something operates or performs. Ludwig AI confirms that it is correct and usable in written English, indicating an active process or state.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

42%

Science

40%

Formal & Business

9%

Less common in

Wiki

1%

Encyclopedias

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "functioning in" is a versatile and commonly used verb phrase that describes how something operates within a specific context. As Ludwig AI points out, it's grammatically correct and suitable for various writing styles. It appears frequently in News & Media and Scientific sources. When using "functioning in", ensure it accurately reflects the active role or state of the subject and consider using more specific verbs to avoid vagueness. Related phrases like "operating within" or "performing in" can offer alternative ways to express similar ideas with subtle differences in emphasis.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

operating within

Focuses on the environment or system in which something is active.

performing in

Emphasizes the execution of specific tasks or duties.

working within

Highlights the constraints or boundaries of an activity.

involved in

Indicates participation or engagement in a process or activity.

engaged in

Suggests active and committed participation.

active in

Implies a state of being operational or influential.

participating in

Highlights the act of taking part in something.

playing a role in

Emphasizes the part something or someone has in a larger process.

contributing to

Focuses on the positive impact or support provided.

serving in

Implies a specific duty or capacity.

FAQs

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

You can use "functioning in" to describe the way an entity operates within a specific context. For instance, "The hospital is "functioning in" a crisis mode" or "The new software is "functioning in" a test environment".

What are some alternatives to "functioning in"?

Depending on the context, you can use alternatives such as "operating within", "performing in", or "working within".

Is it correct to say "functioning at" instead of "functioning in"?

While "functioning at" can be used, it often implies a level or capacity, whereas "functioning in" specifies a context or environment. For example, "functioning at a high level" versus "functioning in a leadership role."

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

When something is described as "not functioning", it implies that it is either not operating correctly or is completely inoperative. This could be due to a malfunction, damage, or being out of its operational context.