is not functioning properly

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "is not functioning properly" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it when describing a device, system, or process that is not operating as intended. Example: "The printer is not functioning properly, and we need to troubleshoot the issue before the deadline."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Formal & Business

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

36 human-written examples

If the heat is not functioning properly, note both indoor and outdoor temperature.

The New York Times

Another problem spot is a small pond, Ann's Way Pond, which has dried up in Hartsdale because a dam is not functioning properly.

The New York Times

If this gatekeeper is not functioning properly, too much information gets through, allowing the person to become easily distracted or overwhelmed.

Massachusetts Institute of Technology

If one organ is not functioning properly, it affects the rest of the body: "It only takes one thing to be wrong to throw the whole system out," she explains.

The Guardian - Lifestyle

In relation to migrants with a family link to the UK, Cameron said the UK was already supporting people to claim asylum under those rules, despite numerous reports that the system is not functioning properly.

The Guardian

If you notice an aberrant red, green or blue spot (also known as a dead pixel) on an active-matrix display, it means that a transistor is not functioning properly.

The New York Times - Tech

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

24 human-written examples

To suggest that criminals could be excused because their brains made them do it seems to imply that anyone whose brain isn't functioning properly could be absolved of responsibility.

Harvard University

"It's only a problem if the whole government isn't functioning properly," a senior administration official said, speaking on condition of anonymity because he did not want to publicly discuss internal matters.

The New York Times

If the thyroid isn't functioning properly, the effects can be widespread and varied.

BBC

General-purpose tracking in a commercial setting certainly has plenty of possible advantages — be it alerts to replenish supplies before they run out, or to notify service staff when an appliance isn't functioning properly.

TechCrunch

Presumably the part of their brains that help us have smooth movements isn't functioning properly".

Vice

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "is not functioning properly", be specific about what aspect of the system or device is malfunctioning to provide clarity.

Common error

Avoid overuse of passive voice when using "is not functioning properly". Instead of saying 'The system is not functioning properly', consider a more direct statement like 'The system malfunctions', which can make your writing more concise and impactful.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "is not functioning properly" typically acts as a predicate adjective, describing the state or condition of a noun. Ludwig AI confirms its correct usage across a wide range of sentences, highlighting its role in indicating a malfunction or defect.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

45%

Science

30%

Wiki

15%

Less common in

Formal & Business

5%

Academia

3%

Encyclopedias

2%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "is not functioning properly" is a versatile and commonly used expression to indicate that something is not working as intended. Ludwig AI validates its grammatical correctness and its prevalence across various contexts, especially in News & Media and Scientific domains. When using this phrase, consider providing specific details about the nature of the malfunction for clarity. For situations where brevity is valued, consider using alternatives such as "is malfunctioning" or "is not working correctly".

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

is malfunctioning

Replaces the longer phrase with a single word indicating improper function.

is not working correctly

Uses simpler language to convey the same meaning.

is out of order

Indicates a temporary cessation of function.

is broken

Suggests a more severe state of non-function.

is defective

Implies an inherent flaw causing the malfunction.

is impaired

Suggests a reduced or compromised functionality.

is non-operational

Formal term for being unable to operate.

has ceased to function

Formal way of saying something has stopped working.

is acting up

Informal term suggesting intermittent or unpredictable malfunctions.

is on the blink

Informal term suggesting imminent or actual failure.

FAQs

What does "is not functioning properly" mean?

The phrase "is not functioning properly" means that something is not working as it should or as intended. It suggests a fault or malfunction in a system, device, or process.

How can I use "is not functioning properly" in a sentence?

You can use "is not functioning properly" to describe a variety of issues. For example, "The printer "is not functioning properly", so I can't print the report."

Which is a better alternative: "is not functioning properly" or "is malfunctioning"?

"Is malfunctioning" can often be a more concise and direct alternative to "is not functioning properly". While both are correct, "is malfunctioning" might be preferable for its brevity, depending on the context.

What are some other phrases similar to "is not functioning properly"?

Similar phrases include "is not working correctly", "is out of order", or "is broken". The best choice depends on the specific nuance you want to convey.