it technically works

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "it technically works" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it when discussing the functionality or effectiveness of something, often implying that while it may not be perfect, it does function as intended. Example: "The new software has some bugs, but it technically works for the tasks we need it to perform."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

3 human-written examples

In other words, it technically works, but it doesn't really work right now.

TechCrunch

While it technically works, it's probably not something you want to dabble with just yet.

TechCrunch

It technically works by using IMAP IDLE functionality which Gmail supports (but doesn't on the iPhone for whatever reason).

TechCrunch

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

57 human-written examples

(Disclosure: I suppose I technically work for AOL, who just recently acquired Hipster. Rest assured, I thought Hipster was cool way before that).

TechCrunch

It even technically works on iOS, though the experience (especially on Safari) is pretty clunky.

TechCrunch

It's not exactly laugh-out-loud funny but technically works because of dramatic irony the dude doesn't seem to understand the cognitive dissonance the viewer experiences or the discomfort it induces.

Vice

WeSwap technically works as a peer-to-peer exchange site in that it matches you with people in other countries who want pounds for their euros or dollars, though you will not notice this in practice.

The Guardian - Money

You give off the air of someone who has the authority to fire people, even though no one technically works under you.

The New Yorker

And while Greg now technically works for himself, and certain things have become somewhat flexible -- meaning he is no longer on a 9-5 schedule -- it's not any easier because whatever schedule we had has gone right out the window.

Huffington Post

While it's true you're technically working for yourself, it's still crucial that you choose the right broker.

WikiHow

Just because you aren't technically working towards a paycheck, it doesn't mean that you aren't working for your money.

Huffington Post

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "it technically works" when you want to convey that something fulfills its basic function, even if it has limitations or isn't ideal. This is useful for managing expectations or providing a qualified assessment.

Common error

Avoid using "it technically works" when something is completely broken or non-functional. This phrase implies at least some level of operability, even if minimal.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "it technically works" primarily functions as an assessment of functionality. As Ludwig AI states, this phrase is correct and usable. It describes something that operates, albeit with limitations, highlighting a nuanced evaluation rather than a simple statement of functionality.

Expression frequency: Uncommon

Frequent in

News & Media

50%

Wiki

25%

Science

25%

Less common in

Formal & Business

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Academia

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "it technically works" serves to denote that something is functional but with caveats, as explained by Ludwig AI. It’s a grammatically correct and usable phrase, suitable for contexts where you need to temper expectations. While the phrase is primarily found in news and media, its usage is versatile enough to apply across different scenarios where basic functionality is present but not necessarily optimal. When employing this phrase, ensure that the subject at hand indeed exhibits some level of functionality to avoid misrepresentation.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

it functions technically

Replaces "works" with "functions" for a more formal tone, but maintains the technical aspect.

it is technically feasible

Shifts the focus to the feasibility of the operation, rather than the actual functioning.

it operates in theory

Focuses on the theoretical possibility of the operation, implying a contrast with practical results.

it is functional in principle

Highlights that the functionality exists as a principle, without a guaranteed performance.

it's theoretically possible

Emphasizes the theoretical possibility of the functionality, which might not be achievable in practice.

it is workable in a limited sense

Implies the possibility of working, with significant limitations.

it is nominally functional

Emphasizes that something is functional only in name, but has low practical effectiveness.

it is superficially operational

Highlights the surface level functionality.

it barely functions

Highlights minimal functionality.

it is formally active

Highlights the formal activation of something, despite it's functionality.

FAQs

How can I use "it technically works" in a sentence?

You can use "it technically works" to describe something that functions in a basic way, though it might not be perfect. For example, "The old software has some glitches, but "it technically works" for the main tasks".

What's a less formal way to say "it technically works"?

Less formal alternatives include phrases like "it kinda works" or "it works, sort of", depending on the level of informality you need.

What does "it technically works" imply?

It implies that something meets the minimum requirements for functioning, even if "it is not perfect" or efficient. There are likely limitations or drawbacks.

Is "it technically works" different from "it works perfectly"?

Yes, "it technically works" suggests basic functionality with caveats. "It works perfectly" implies flawless performance without issues.