is in working order

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "is in working order" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it to indicate that something is functioning properly or is operational. Example: "Before we start the project, please ensure that all equipment is in working order."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

53 human-written examples

Simply no other way to gauge, affirm, and discuss quality is in working order.

The New Yorker

The switch where the railway divides into three tracks is in working order.

The New Yorker

An even more critical consideration is being sure that your technology is in working order.

The New York Times

If everything is in working order, there should be no need to supplement this with faddy detox products.

Independent

The Yavari is in working order now, but needs £350,000 more work before it can be certified for passenger use.

The Guardian - Travel

"Cleaning is critically important," Ms. Saatchi said, "and make sure everything is in working order when you turn the house over".

The New York Times

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

7 human-written examples

The ventilator was in working order.

The New York Times

At least some assembly lines were in working order.

The New York Times

"The standard form says that the plumbing, heating and electrical systems are in working order and will be in working order at the time of closing," he said.

The New York Times

All my key parts are in working order, nothing is disintegrating from the inside out.

The New York Times

All of it was supposed to be in working order well before Tuesday.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When writing instructions or manuals, use "is in working order" to clearly indicate that a device or system should be fully functional before operation. For example: "Ensure the safety switch is in working order before starting the machine."

Common error

Avoid assuming that equipment "is in working order" without regular checks. Implement routine inspections to prevent unexpected failures and ensure consistent performance.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "is in working order" functions as an adjective phrase, describing the condition or state of a noun. It indicates that something is functional, operational, and ready for its intended use. As noted by Ludwig, this phrase is generally considered correct and usable in written English.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

50%

Wiki

35%

Science

15%

Less common in

Formal & Business

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "is in working order" is a common and grammatically correct way to describe something that is functioning properly. Ludwig AI confirms its usability across various contexts, particularly in news, technical documentation, and general instructions. When using the phrase, ensure you regularly check the condition of the object in question, rather than assuming it "is in working order" without verification. Alternatives such as "is functioning correctly" or "is operational" can be used depending on the desired level of formality and emphasis.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

is in proper working order

Adds emphasis on the correctness and suitability of the operational state.

is functioning correctly

Uses "functioning" instead of "working", emphasizing the process of operation.

is operational

A more formal synonym, suggesting readiness for immediate use.

works properly

A simpler and more direct way of saying something is functioning as intended.

is in good condition

Focuses on the state of the item, implying it's suitable for use.

is serviceable

Indicates that something is ready to provide service or perform its function.

is up and running

Suggests the item has been activated and is currently operating.

is ready for use

Emphasizes the preparedness of something for its intended purpose.

is fit for purpose

Highlights that something meets the requirements for a specific task.

is active

Focuses on the state of being currently engaged or operating.

FAQs

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

You can use "is in working order" to describe something that is functioning correctly. For example, "Before the experiment, make sure all the equipment "is in working order"".

What's a simpler way to say "is in working order"?

Alternatives include "is functioning correctly", "is operational", or "works properly". The best choice depends on the context.

Is it redundant to say "is in proper working order"?

While "is in working order" is sufficient, adding "proper" emphasizes the correctness and suitability of the operational state. So, "is in proper working order" isn't necessarily redundant but adds a degree of formality.

What should I check to ensure something "is in working order"?

This depends on the item, but general checks include verifying power supply, functionality of key components, absence of damage, and successful completion of test runs.