well functioning

USAGE SUMMARY

'well functioning' is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it to describe something that works properly, is in good condition, and is functioning as intended. For example: "The computer was well functioning and easy to use."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

10 human-written examples

We found them to be extremely well functioning families.

The Guardian

Obviously, there are benefits to well functioning financial markets.

The Economist

"Pathology is at the centre of a well functioning hospital.

BBC

For obvious reasons, Uber is seriously concerned about punitive government intervention in a well functioning marketplace.

TechCrunch

First and foremost, a well functioning 'pharmacy' requires sensible nutrition.

Huffington Post

Seth Rogen: Yeah exactly, a very well functioning team is not that interesting.

Vice

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

50 human-written examples

These networks guarantee the well-functioning of cities.

Geographical Models with Mathematica

That is not how a well-functioning economy should work.

The New York Times

To dwell inside a well-functioning machine is to be largely unaware of its functioning.

The New Yorker

But if you go to Toronto it's actually a very well-functioning city!

The Guardian - Film

The participating countries are well-functioning democracies.

The Economist

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When describing a system or organization, use "well functioning" to emphasize its operational health and effectiveness. For example, "a well functioning team" suggests more than just competence; it implies harmonious and productive collaboration.

Common error

While "well functioning" is acceptable, avoid using it excessively in a single document. Vary your language with synonyms like "efficient", "effective", or "optimal" to maintain reader engagement and demonstrate a wider vocabulary.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "well functioning" primarily functions as a compound adjective modifying a noun. It describes the state or condition of something, indicating it operates effectively and as intended. Ludwig provides examples of its use in describing "families", "financial markets", and "hospitals".

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

50%

Science

30%

Encyclopedias

5%

Less common in

Formal & Business

5%

Reference

0%

Social Media

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "well functioning" is a versatile compound adjective used to describe the effective and proper operation of systems, organizations, or even individuals. As Ludwig AI confirms, the phrase is grammatically correct and commonly found in various contexts, particularly in News & Media and Science. When using "well functioning", consider context to avoid overuse and substitute with alternatives like "properly operating" or "fully functional" to add variety to your writing. The phrase is generally neutral in register, suitable for both formal and informal communication.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

fully functional

Emphasizes the completeness of the functionality, suggesting all features are working.

properly operating

Emphasizes the act of operating correctly, changing the focus slightly from the overall state.

functioning correctly

Reorders the words for a slightly different emphasis on the manner of functioning.

in good working order

Uses a more idiomatic expression to convey a similar meaning of being functional and ready for use.

operating efficiently

Highlights the efficiency of the operation, adding a performance aspect.

performing optimally

Suggests the highest level of performance and capability.

working effectively

Focuses on the effectiveness of the work being done, implying successful outcomes.

running smoothly

Implies a lack of problems or interruptions in the functioning.

in tip-top shape

Uses an informal idiom to describe excellent condition and functionality.

serviceable

Indicates the item or system is able to provide the required service or function.

FAQs

How can I use "well functioning" in a sentence?

You can use "well functioning" to describe systems, organizations, or even body parts that are working as intended. For instance, "a "well functioning economy"" or "a "well functioning team"".

What are some alternatives to "well functioning"?

Depending on the context, you could use alternatives such as "properly operating", "fully functional", or "in good working order".

Is it better to say "well functioning" or "functioning well"?

"Well functioning" typically acts as an adjective before a noun (e.g., "well functioning system"), while "functioning well" is a verb phrase (e.g., "the system is functioning well"). The choice depends on the grammatical structure of your sentence.

What does it mean when something is described as "well functioning"?

When something is described as "well functioning", it means that it is operating correctly, efficiently, and as intended. It implies that the thing is in good condition and fulfilling its purpose effectively.