unable to function normally

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "unable to function normally" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe a situation where something or someone is not operating as expected or is experiencing difficulties. Example: "After the software update, the application was unable to function normally, causing frustration for users."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

7 human-written examples

Stores may be open and the streets may still buzz with motorcycles, but people here describe themselves as living in a town besieged, powerless and unable to function normally.

The New York Times

In traditional research, he said, a drinking binge is an uncontrollable, excessive episode that lasts several days, making the drinker unable to function normally at work or in relationships.

The New York Times

(An online Shakespeare glossary says that Macbeth is complaining that he is unable to function normally because murdering Duncan, the king, is the only thing he can think about).

The New York Times

As a result, a 20-year-old man today can expect to live about a year longer than a 20-year-old in 1998, but will spend 1.2 years more with a disease, and 2 more years unable to function normally.

The New York Times - Health

Unable to function normally, the crippled cells may allow disease and cancer to take hold.

Science Magazine

RRT removes excess potassium, acid and phosphate that accumulate when the kidneys are unable to function normally and is required until kidney function is regained.

Wikipedia

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

52 human-written examples

At least 30 people executed in the last two decades met the generally understood definition for mental retardation: a person of "significantly subaverage intelligence," who is unable to perform the tasks to function normally in society.

The New York Times

It can lead to a woman's failure to function normally during menstruation rendering them unable to perform daily activities; it can contribute to absenteeism from work or school [ 2].

BMC Complementary and Alternative Medicine

"It appears to function normally.

The New York Times - Science

But allow our democracy to function normally?

The New York Times

Little by little, they lost their ability to function normally.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When describing a temporary condition, such as the effect of medication or a temporary system outage, using "unable to function normally" can effectively convey the disruption without implying permanent damage. For example, "After taking the strong medication, she was unable to function normally for several hours."

Common error

While "unable to function normally" is widely understood, it may sound less precise in formal or technical writing. Consider using more specific terms like "malfunctioning" or "experiencing functional limitations" to enhance clarity and professionalism.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "unable to function normally" typically functions as an adjectival phrase, modifying a noun or pronoun to describe its state of impaired operation. Ludwig AI confirms its usage across various contexts, providing examples from news articles to scientific publications.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

40%

Science

35%

Wiki

25%

Less common in

Formal & Business

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Social Media

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "unable to function normally" is a versatile expression used to describe impaired operation or performance across various contexts. As Ludwig AI confirms, it is grammatically sound and widely understood, appearing in news articles, scientific publications, and general writing. While the phrase is generally neutral in tone, it can be replaced by more specific terms in formal or technical writing to enhance clarity. When using this phrase, consider the context to ensure the level of formality is appropriate. Related phrases like "not operating properly" and "malfunctioning" offer alternative ways to express similar ideas. Overall, "unable to function normally" is a common and effective way to describe a state of impaired functionality.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

incapable of normal operation

Replaces "function" with "operation" and "unable" with "incapable", emphasizing the lack of operational capacity.

not operating properly

Uses simpler language to convey the idea of malfunction, focusing on the improper operation.

not working as expected

Focuses on the deviation from the anticipated or intended performance.

malfunctioning

A single-word replacement indicating a failure to function correctly.

impaired functionality

Uses more technical language to describe the reduced or compromised ability to function.

experiencing functional limitations

Highlights the presence of restrictions or constraints on the ability to function.

not performing adequately

Emphasizes the insufficient level of performance or functionality.

operating below par

Uses an idiom to suggest that the performance is less than optimal.

out of order

Suggests a state of disrepair or temporary inability to function.

not up to standard

Implies that the functionality does not meet the required or expected level of quality.

FAQs

What does "unable to function normally" mean?

The phrase "unable to function normally" describes a state where an entity, whether a person, object, or system, cannot operate or perform tasks in the expected or typical manner. This could be due to various reasons, such as illness, damage, or external interference.

What are some alternatives to "unable to function normally"?

Depending on the context, you can use phrases like "not operating properly", "malfunctioning", or "impaired functionality" as alternatives to "unable to function normally".

When is it appropriate to use "unable to function normally"?

It is appropriate to use "unable to function normally" in various contexts, from describing a person's condition after an illness to explaining why a machine is not working correctly. It's suitable when you want to convey that something or someone is not performing as expected.

How can I use "unable to function normally" in a sentence?

You can use "unable to function normally" in a sentence like this: "Due to the power outage, the hospital's main computer system was "unable to function normally", causing delays in patient care."