it was functional

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "it was functional" is correct and can be used in written English.
It refers to something that is practical or useful to a certain purpose and is typically used to describe physical objects. For example: "The old microwave had been in the kitchen for more than 10 years, but it was still functional and worked perfectly."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

24 human-written examples

"But in the contexts we designed it for, it was functional," he said.

The New York Times - Tech

Intermembrane [14C]cholesterol transfer was strongly enhanced by bSCP-2, demonstrating that it was functional.

Analytical Biochemistry

Iverson, who was a curator of the recent retrospective, says Cashin's work was autobiography: "It was what she loved, it was what she needed and it was functional".

The New York Times - Magazine

"It was so popular because it was functional, it did what it was supposed to do, and ahead of its time in so many ways, and then they brought it back".

The New York Times - Tech

Using high-throughput genetic engineering, we resized the arm in the range of 6 60 nm and found that it was functional only in specific length regimes following a periodic pattern.

Molecular Cell

Contemporary capitalism was shaped by its rational brutality but the banks, insurers and speculators who facilitated and expanded slavery have been able to project their activity as unsullied by a cruel and racist system that was as systematic as it was functional.

The Guardian - Opinion

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

36 human-written examples

It's functional.

The New York Times

"It's functional with style".

The New York Times

"So it's functional, too," she says.

The New York Times

"And it is functional, but not flashy".

The New York Times

Before it's functional, music has to be fun".

The New York Times - Arts

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When describing an object or system, use "it was functional" to emphasize its ability to perform its intended task effectively, even if it lacks aesthetic appeal or advanced features.

Common error

Avoid using "it was functional" as a generic descriptor. Instead, specify how it was functional. For example, instead of "The design was functional", consider "The design was functional because it maximized space efficiency."

Linguistic Context

The phrase "it was functional" serves as a descriptive statement, indicating that something possessed the ability to fulfill its intended purpose effectively in the past. As confirmed by Ludwig, the phrase follows standard grammatical rules and is commonly used.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

50%

Science

42%

Wiki

8%

Less common in

Formal & Business

0%

Academia

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "it was functional" is a grammatically sound and commonly used expression that describes the past ability of something to perform its intended purpose effectively. As Ludwig AI confirms, this phrase follows standard grammar rules and is versatile across various contexts, particularly in News & Media and Science. When using this phrase, it's best to specify how something was functional rather than relying on it as a generic descriptor. Consider alternatives such as ""it served its purpose"" or ""it worked well"" to add nuance to your writing.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

it served its purpose

Focuses more directly on the achievement of a specific aim or goal.

it fulfilled its function

Emphasizes the completion of a designated role or task.

it proved effective

Highlights the success of achieving a desired outcome.

it worked well

A more general expression indicating satisfactory performance.

it was practical

Focuses on the feasibility and usefulness in real-world situations.

it was serviceable

Implies that something is adequate and capable of performing its required task, even if not exceptional.

it was operational

Describes something that is in working order and ready for use.

it was in working order

Indicates that something is in a condition to be used effectively.

it was up and running

Describes something that is active and functioning correctly, often used in technical contexts.

it was fit for purpose

Highlights suitability and effectiveness for a specific task or goal.

FAQs

How can I use "it was functional" in a sentence?

You can use "it was functional" to describe something that effectively performs its intended purpose. For example: "The old car wasn't pretty, but "it was functional" and got me to work every day."

What are some alternatives to "it was functional"?

Some alternatives to "it was functional" include "it served its purpose", "it worked well", or "it was practical", depending on the context.

Is it better to say "it was functional" or "it is functional"?

Use "it was functional" when referring to something in the past. Use "it is functional" when referring to something in the present. For example: "The prototype "it is functional", but needs some refinements" versus "The prototype "it was functional" before the last update".

Can "it was functional" be used to describe abstract concepts?

While typically used for physical objects or systems, "it was functional" can be extended to abstract concepts if they demonstrate a clear and effective purpose. For instance, "The strategy "it was functional" in achieving the company's goals".