in perfect working order

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "in perfect working order" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it to describe an object or system that is functioning optimally without any issues. Example: "After the maintenance check, the machinery is now in perfect working order and ready for production."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

37 human-written examples

They were, however, in perfect working order.

The Guardian - Lifestyle

Officer Summers found them in perfect working order.

The New York Times

He pointed to shelves full of his refurbished typewriters — already decades old yet all in perfect working order.

The New York Times

The machine in question was a British model, made in 1899, but now once again in perfect working order.

The Guardian - Film

The closest analogy may be musical: the songs of Broadway composers like Cole Porter, which radiate the energy of vernacular language being put in perfect working order.

The New York Times - Arts

It is the recognition of the right to exist as a state – it is not about endorsing a state that has to be in perfect working order.

Independent

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

21 human-written examples

I didn't need Shields' expertise to tell the pin was in perfect working order--it shone like a grand piano.

Huffington Post

As such, the Mitchell-Innes ensemble forms a fantastic finale to the three shows, providing one view after another of a vernacular language fine-tuned to perfect working order.

The New York Times - Arts

When it comes to breakdowns, he says nine out of 10 washing machines and three-quarters of flat-screen televisions can be restored to perfect working order.

BBC

They are kept in better working order if they are discharged and recharged every so often.

The Guardian - Tech

When that happens, the satellite which may be in perfect working order quickly becomes useless.Rather than launch an entire replacement satellite, Skycorp reasoned, it is cheaper to launch just a new propulsion system and then fit it onto the old bird.

The Economist

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use this phrase when you want to emphasize not just that something works, but that it works without any flaws or issues.

Common error

Avoid using "in perfect working order" in highly formal or technical documentation where more precise language detailing specific performance metrics might be more appropriate.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "in perfect working order" functions as an adjective phrase, modifying a noun to indicate that something is fully functional and without any faults. As Ludwig AI confirms, it's suitable for describing systems, devices, or even physical conditions, ensuring the subject is operating optimally.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

65%

Wiki

15%

Science

10%

Less common in

Formal & Business

5%

Encyclopedias

3%

Reference

2%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "in perfect working order" is a common and grammatically correct adjective phrase used to describe something functioning optimally and without faults. As confirmed by Ludwig AI, it's found across various contexts, including news, technical documentation, and general instructions. While versatile, it's best to avoid overuse in overly formal or highly technical contexts, where more specific terminology might be preferable. When aiming to assure reliability and performance, this phrase serves as a clear and concise means of communication.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

fully functional

Emphasizes the complete ability to perform its intended function.

completely operational

Highlights the active status and ability to operate.

in top condition

Focuses on the overall state and quality of something.

in excellent shape

Similar to "in top condition" but may also imply physical appearance.

running smoothly

Highlights the efficiency and lack of problems in operation.

working flawlessly

Emphasizes the absence of errors or defects during operation.

in tip-top shape

An informal way of saying "in excellent condition".

ready to go

Indicates preparedness and immediate availability for use.

serviceable

Implies that something is in a usable condition, though perhaps not perfect.

up and running

Indicates that a system or machine has been started and is functioning.

FAQs

How can I use "in perfect working order" in a sentence?

You can use "in perfect working order" to describe a device, system, or even a part of the body when it's functioning optimally. For example, "After the repairs, the machine was "in perfect working order"."

What are some alternatives to saying "in perfect working order"?

Alternatives include "fully functional", "completely operational", or "in top condition". The best choice depends on the specific context.

Is it redundant to say "in perfect working order and condition"?

Yes, saying "in perfect working order and condition" can be redundant, as "perfect working order" already implies an ideal state of condition. Choose one or the other for conciseness.

What's the difference between "in good working order" and "in perfect working order"?

"In good working order" implies that something is functional and usable, but not necessarily flawless. "In perfect working order", on the other hand, suggests that something is functioning without any issues whatsoever.