in functional terms

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "in functional terms" is correct and usable in written English.
It is typically used to describe something in a practical or operational context, focusing on how it works or functions rather than theoretical aspects. Example: "In functional terms, the new software improves efficiency by automating repetitive tasks."

✓ Grammatically correct

Science

Academia

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

Critics of functionalism often deny that consciousness can be adequately explicated in functional terms (Block 1980a, 1980b, Levine 1983, Chalmers 1996).

SEP

In functional terms the DRD4 7-repeat allele seems to alter the function of the encoded receptor by making it less sensitive to dopamine than the alternative alleles [ 5].

European Child and Adolescent Psychiatry

The AtWAKL10-ECGG50 was therefore subjected to a functional enrichment analysis using "Fatigoplus" [40] to determine if there was any enrichment in functional terms associated with the group and thus link AtWAKL10 to these functions.

Plosone

To this point, the expansion of intellectual-property rights would seem readily explainable in functional terms.

Harvard University

Causal requirements, like all other legal requirements, must ultimately justify themselves in functional terms.

Harvard University

Here we review our recent efforts to accurately characterize these scaling trends and explain them in functional terms.

Princeton University

Kenny says: "It might be managed as a separate entity, but in functional terms all my team work very closely with the rest of the council officers".

The Guardian

Finally, we attempt to explain this topologico-metric categorisation in functional terms.

Physica A: Statistical Mechanics and its Applications

In both cases, the parameters under investigation are defined in functional terms.

Studies in History and Philosophy of Science Part C: Studies in History and Philosophy of Biological and Biomedical Sciences

Emphasizing the judicial authority to say what the law is, it views any restraints on judicial authority solely in functional terms, terms not as litigant centered.

Columbia University

On the contrary, concomitant treatment of ischemic cardiopathy and associated MR appears to provide better results, especially in functional terms.

Cardiocore

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "in functional terms", ensure that the focus remains on the practical application or operation of the subject, rather than abstract or theoretical considerations.

Common error

Avoid using "in functional terms" when discussing purely theoretical or abstract concepts where practical application is not relevant. It's best suited for situations where you're explaining how something actually works or is used.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "in functional terms" serves as an adverbial phrase, modifying a clause by specifying the perspective from which something is being evaluated, namely its practical function or operation. Ludwig AI confirms its correct usage through numerous examples.

Expression frequency: Uncommon

Frequent in

Science

60%

Academia

20%

News & Media

20%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

0%

Wiki

0%

Formal & Business

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "in functional terms" is a versatile adverbial phrase used to shift focus to the practical operation or application of a subject. Ludwig AI confirms its correct usage. Analysis of its usage reveals a preference for scientific and academic contexts, though it also appears in news and media. When writing, use "in functional terms" to emphasize the practical aspects of something. Avoid using it in purely theoretical discussions. Consider alternatives like "in practical terms" or "practically speaking" to add nuance. The phrase, while grammatically correct, is uncommon, suggesting that more direct alternatives might often be preferred for clarity.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

in terms of functionality

Directly refers to the aspect of how something functions.

in practical terms

Emphasizes real-world application and feasibility.

from a functional standpoint

Highlights the perspective of functionality and purpose.

practically speaking

Focuses on the practical implications rather than the theoretical aspects.

operationally speaking

Concentrates on how something works in operation or execution.

as a matter of function

Highlights that functionality is the central aspect being considered.

for all practical purposes

Suggests that the differences being ignored are irrelevant in a real-world setting.

from an applied perspective

Focuses on the application of a concept or idea.

regarding its operation

Specifically looks at the operational aspect of something.

concerning its utility

Emphasizes the usefulness and practical value of something.

FAQs

How can I use "in functional terms" in a sentence?

Use "in functional terms" to explain something based on its practical application or how it operates. For example, "In functional terms, the software update improves efficiency by automating repetitive tasks."

What's a good alternative to "in functional terms"?

Alternatives include "practically speaking", "in practical terms", or "from a functional standpoint", depending on the specific context.

Is it better to say "in functional terms" or "in practical terms"?

Both are correct, but "in functional terms" is more specific to how something operates, while "in practical terms" is a broader statement about real-world applicability.

When is it inappropriate to use "in functional terms"?

Avoid using "in functional terms" when discussing abstract or theoretical concepts that lack a clear practical application. It is best used when focusing on the operational aspects of something.