functioning independently

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "functioning independently" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe a person, system, or entity that operates without reliance on others or external support. Example: "The new software is functioning independently, allowing users to complete tasks without needing assistance from IT."

✓ Grammatically correct

Science

News & Media

Encyclopedias

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

40 human-written examples

"This is someone functioning independently, holding a job, doing their everyday activities without trouble," Johnson said.

The New Yorker

"I think they are functioning independently, which is a major step forward," he said.

The New York Times - Sports

Although functioning independently in most situations, the villages would ally for war, and members of different villages often married.

Encyclopedia Britannica

"The assumption has always been that a Department of Justice, functioning independently and at arm's length from the White House, would enforce the law, and do the right thing.

The New Yorker

A theory of shapes and colors functioning independently of objective imagery, articulated in "On the Spiritual in Art," was one of Kandinsky's great contributions, and it has evidently inspired Mr. Ilachinski's "Interaction" series.

The New York Times

Altogether, our results indicate that creativity is a fluid construct, functioning independently of personality traits, which can be enhanced through targeted creativity intervention.

Thinking Skills and Creativity

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

20 human-written examples

The groups largely function independently.

The Guardian

At other times, the two ensembles functioned independently.

The New York Times - Arts

But Nawaz says the intelligence agency does not function independently.

The Washington Post

Perhaps it will function independently of the death of consumer netbooks.

The Guardian - Tech

This is about whether local government will be allowed to function independently of the national government".

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When describing a system or process, ensure that the context clearly indicates what it is independent of. For instance, 'The module is functioning independently of the main program' clarifies the scope of independence.

Common error

Avoid using the phrase when the subject's independence is only partial or limited. Instead, specify the areas in which the subject functions without assistance to maintain accuracy and avoid misleading the reader.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "functioning independently" primarily acts as an adverbial modifier, describing how something operates. It specifies the manner in which an entity performs, emphasizing its autonomy. Ludwig AI confirms its usability in various contexts.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

Science

48%

News & Media

28%

Encyclopedias

8%

Less common in

Academia

8%

Wiki

4%

Formal & Business

4%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "functioning independently" is a grammatically correct and versatile expression that describes the state of operating without external control or support. Ludwig AI confirms its proper usage. It is commonly used in scientific, news, and encyclopedia contexts to convey autonomy and self-reliance. While alternatives like "operating autonomously" or "acting independently" exist, "functioning independently" provides a clear and direct way to communicate the idea of self-sufficiency. When using this phrase, ensure the context clearly defines what the subject is independent of to avoid ambiguity.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

operating autonomously

Emphasizes self-governance and lack of external control.

working autonomously

Similar to 'operating autonomously' but focuses on the act of working.

acting independently

Highlights the act of taking action without guidance.

being self-sufficient

Focuses on the ability to provide for oneself without help.

standing on one's own two feet

An idiomatic expression for being capable and independent.

self-reliant

Highlights reliance on one's own capabilities and resources.

being independent

A more general term for not being controlled or influenced by others.

managing independently

Focuses on the ability to handle tasks and responsibilities without supervision.

performing independently

Emphasizes the ability to carry out tasks without assistance.

existing independently

Focuses on the state of existing without reliance on others.

FAQs

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

You can use "functioning independently" to describe entities or processes that operate without external control or support. For example, "The department is now functioning independently after the reorganization".

What are some alternatives to "functioning independently"?

Some alternatives include "operating autonomously", "working independently", or "acting independently", depending on the specific context.

Is it grammatically correct to say "function independently" instead of "functioning independently"?

While "function independently" can be grammatically correct depending on the context, "functioning independently" often serves as a descriptive phrase indicating a current state or ongoing process. Consider the intended meaning when choosing between the two.

What's the difference between "functioning independently" and "being self-sufficient"?

"Functioning independently" emphasizes the operational aspect of not requiring external assistance, whereas "being self-sufficient" highlights the ability to provide for one's own needs without reliance on others. The nuance depends on whether the focus is on operation or provision.