we are functioning

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "we are functioning" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe the state of operation or performance of a system, organization, or group. Example: "Despite the challenges we faced, we are functioning well as a team and meeting our goals."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

6 human-written examples

We are functioning holding opposing ideas, new ones every day.

The New York Times

"We are functioning," he added, "from a different set of views on many critical items of policy".

The New York Times

"We are functioning in two time frames," says Leslie Voltaire, Haiti's envoy to the un.

The Economist

We are functioning crazy people.

Huffington Post

We are functioning just the way a collegiate community should in attending to these challenges.

Huffington Post

We are functioning from a different set of views on many critical items of policy.

Huffington Post

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

53 human-written examples

"We're functioning, we're operating, we haven't shut down".

The New York Times

"I think of them as recruiting devices and financing devices to say to the world, 'We're alive; we're functioning.

The New York Times

"We've been jury-rigging every type of operation to make sure we're functioning as best we can," said Owen J. Quinn Jr., the mayor of Torrington.

The New York Times

We know the style he wants to play and we feel more confident with the way we're functioning right now.

The New York Times

"In the aftermath of the global financial crisis, and with the way people feel right now about their lives – the squeeze on their standard of living, their anxiety and insecurity about their future – there is an argument for saying that the world is changing, and therefore the political environment that we're functioning in is not the same as 1995".

The Guardian

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "we are functioning" to describe a group or system's ability to operate effectively. For example, "Despite the challenges, we are functioning efficiently as a team."

Common error

Avoid using "we are functioning" in overly formal situations where more precise or sophisticated language might be appropriate. Consider using more specific terms to describe the nature of the function.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "we are functioning" primarily serves as a statement of operational status, indicating that a group or entity is in a working or active condition. Ludwig AI confirms this through various examples where it's used to describe organizations and systems in operation.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

57%

Science

29%

Formal & Business

14%

Less common in

Academia

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Wiki

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "we are functioning" is a common and grammatically correct way to express that a group or system is operating effectively. As Ludwig AI confirms, it's used across various contexts, including news, science, and business, indicating its versatility. While generally neutral in tone, it's best to avoid overuse in overly formal settings where more precise language might be preferred. Consider alternatives like "we are operating" or "we are working" for subtle shifts in meaning.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

we are operating

This alternative focuses on the active process of running or managing something, similar to functioning.

we are working

This alternative highlights the active state of performing tasks, which is a core aspect of functioning.

we are in operation

This phrase emphasizes the state of being active and running, similar to functioning but with a slightly more formal tone.

we are performing

This alternative focuses on the execution of tasks and duties, implying a certain level of activity.

we are up and running

This phrase emphasizes that a system or process is active after a period of inactivity or setup.

we are in effect

This alternative highlights the state of being active and producing results, similar to functioning but with a focus on impact.

we are viable

This phrase emphasizes the ability to continue functioning effectively in the long term.

we are effective

This alternative focuses on the successful achievement of goals and tasks, which is a key outcome of functioning.

we are alive and kicking

This phrase idiomatically expresses continued activity and vitality, emphasizing that the system is not only functioning but also energetic.

we are active

This alternative simply indicates that the system or process is currently operating and not idle.

FAQs

What does "we are functioning" mean?

The phrase "we are functioning" means that a group, organization, or system is operating or working in a normal or effective way. It implies that things are running smoothly and achieving their intended purpose.

How can I use "we are functioning" in a sentence?

You can use "we are functioning" to describe the state of a team, organization, or system. For example, "Despite the initial setbacks, "we are operating" at full capacity now" or "Even with the reduced budget, "we are working" effectively."

What are some alternatives to "we are functioning"?

Some alternatives to "we are functioning" include "we are operating", "we are working", "we are in operation", or "we are performing". The best choice depends on the specific context.

Is "we are functioning" formal or informal?

"We are functioning" is generally considered a neutral phrase suitable for both professional and informal contexts. However, in extremely formal settings, more precise language may be preferred.