functioning properly

USAGE SUMMARY

"functioning properly" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it to describe something that is working as it should. For example, "The computer has been functioning properly since the technician fixed it."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

58 human-written examples

They are not functioning properly now.

The Guardian

What obstacles might prevent it from functioning properly?

The New York Times

Not a single oil refinery is functioning properly.

The Economist

"The marketplace is not really functioning properly yet.

The New York Times

The group said 38 recall numbers set up after 1996 were no longer functioning properly.

The New York Times

*A 72-year-old man whose lungs and kidneys were not functioning properly because of infections.

The New York Times

The background check can take seconds when the system is functioning properly.

The New York Times

I tried to keep busy, but for a long time my brain wasn't functioning properly.

The Guardian

Transponders must be regularly calibrated and checked to make sure they are functioning properly.

The New York Times

Even control systems that were in place are not functioning properly, the report said.

The New York Times

In the short term, it could stop government functioning properly, he said.

The Guardian

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When describing systems or equipment, use "functioning properly" to assure readers of their reliable operation.

Common error

Instead of using convoluted expressions, "functioning properly" provides a clear and concise way to convey that something is working as it should.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "functioning properly" typically acts as an adverbial phrase modifying a verb, indicating the manner in which an action is performed. Ludwig shows numerous examples where it describes how a system, device, or process operates.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

41%

Wiki

22%

Science

21%

Less common in

Formal & Business

10%

Encyclopedias

3%

Reference

3%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "functioning properly" is a versatile and commonly used phrase that describes something operating as intended. Ludwig AI confirms its grammatical correctness and wide applicability across various contexts, from formal reports to everyday conversations. While alternatives like "working correctly" or "operating effectively" exist, "functioning properly" provides a clear and concise way to convey proper operation. The phrase is most frequently found in news, science, and wiki contexts, solidifying its status as a reliable descriptor of operational status.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

working correctly

Focuses on the correctness of the operation.

functioning as intended

Mirrors "performing as expected" with a focus on intention.

operating effectively

Emphasizes the effectiveness of the operation.

running smoothly

Highlights the absence of problems or interruptions.

performing as expected

Indicates that the performance meets predetermined expectations.

in good working order

Refers to the condition of being operational and well-maintained.

working as designed

Implies that the item is working according to its specifications.

operating optimally

Indicates that the item is working at its best capacity.

in proper working condition

Similar to "in good working order", but slightly more formal.

performing adequately

Suggests the performance is satisfactory but not exceptional.

FAQs

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

You can use "functioning properly" to describe something that is working as it should. For example, "The new software is "functioning properly" after the update".

What are some alternatives to "functioning properly"?

Alternatives include "working correctly", "operating effectively", or "running smoothly". The best choice depends on the specific nuance you want to convey.

Is it correct to say "properly functioning" instead of "functioning properly"?

Yes, "properly functioning" is also correct, but it acts as an adjective before a noun (e.g., a properly functioning device), while "functioning properly" describes how something is operating (e.g., the device is "functioning properly").

What does it mean when something is described as "functioning properly"?

It means that the item or system is operating as it was designed to, without any issues or errors. It's working in the way it's expected.