when functioning correctly

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "when functioning correctly" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe a condition or state in which something operates as intended or expected. Example: "The device will provide accurate readings when functioning correctly."

✓ Grammatically correct

Science

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

2 human-written examples

When functioning correctly, the immune system continually protects us from the most common to the most deadly and mysterious maladies: common influenza to HIV and cancer.

Peptide Applications in Biomedicine, Biotechnology and Bioengineering

It became apparent from the analysis that these tensions were caused either by patients becoming annoyed when the system did not work as it should or by patients having unrealistic expectations of what the system could do even when functioning correctly.

BMC Health Services Research

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

58 human-written examples

Even when functioning 'correctly', i.e. as intended, scooter rides can ooze a kind of brash entitlement.

TechCrunch

Given the particular features that a processing mechanism has been 'designed' or 'selected' to detect, it is functioning correctly when it responds appropriately to the presence of those features, and incorrectly when it responds in their absence (for example, to a sudden contrast in light intensity not due to the presence of an edge).

SEP

Monarchs' muscles stop functioning correctly when temperatures are in the 50s, so scientists warn that unless the butterflies start their 3,000-mile 3,000-mileuth soon, many of them may end up stuck up north and die.

Yale University

Regardless of their hardest attempts they and their families were constantly caught in this cycle -- a cycle that our country is complicit in creating, supporting and allowing to continue even when it is not functioning correctly.

Huffington Post

But when your mind is not functioning correctly, you're not thinking clearly, you lose that opportunity," he said.

The Guardian

That would be when Apple revealed to iPhone 6 owners that their batteries were not functioning correctly and that they'd have to pay for a replacement if they wanted full functionality.

TechCrunch

Test whether the lasers are functioning correctly.

Nature

Since then, operators have been testing that everything is functioning correctly.

The Guardian

"The verification process involves determining if the missile launcher was functioning correctly or not.

BBC

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "when functioning correctly", ensure that the context clearly defines what constitutes correct function. Be specific about the expected behavior or outcome to avoid ambiguity.

Common error

Avoid using "when functioning correctly" without clearly specifying what 'correctly' means in the given context. If the criteria for proper function are not well-defined, the phrase loses its meaning and practical value.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "when functioning correctly" functions as an adverbial clause of condition, modifying the main clause by specifying the circumstances under which the action or state described in the main clause is valid. As stated in Ludwig AI, this phrase is correct and usable in written English.

Expression frequency: Uncommon

Frequent in

News & Media

50%

Science

50%

Academia

0%

Less common in

Formal & Business

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Wiki

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "when functioning correctly" is a grammatically correct adverbial clause used to specify conditions under which a statement is valid. As Ludwig AI confirms, the phrase is perfectly acceptable in English. It's most frequently found in News & Media and Science contexts, demanding clarity in defining 'correctly' to avoid vagueness. Alternatives include "when operating properly" or "when working as intended". Remember to be specific about the expected behavior when using the phrase to maintain its effectiveness. The phrase scores a high expert rating because of its accurate grammatical structure and presence in several authoritative sources.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

when operating as intended

Replaces "functioning correctly" with a more explicit description of intended operation.

when working properly

Substitutes "functioning" with "working" and "correctly" with "properly" for simpler terms.

in proper working order

Uses a noun phrase to describe the state of being in good operational condition, shifting the focus from action to state.

when in good condition

Focuses on the state of the subject being in a healthy or well-maintained state.

when all systems are go

An idiomatic expression indicating readiness and correct functioning.

when running smoothly

Highlights the smooth, uninterrupted operation of something.

when up to code

Used to describe a system or process that meets required standards and is therefore functioning correctly.

when optimally performing

Emphasizes that the function is working at its highest possible level.

when fulfilling its purpose

Shifts the focus to the achievement of the intended goal.

when adhering to specifications

Indicates compliance with specific technical or functional requirements.

FAQs

How can I rephrase "when functioning correctly"?

You can use alternatives like "when operating properly", "when working as intended", or "in proper working order" depending on the context.

Is it grammatically correct to say "when functioning correctly"?

Yes, the phrase "when functioning correctly" is grammatically sound. It introduces a condition or state in which something is operating as expected.

In what contexts is "when functioning correctly" typically used?

This phrase is commonly used in technical, scientific, or medical contexts to describe the proper operation of a system, device, or biological process. It's also appropriate for general use when discussing the intended or expected behavior of something.

What is the difference between "when functioning correctly" and "when functioning optimally"?

"When functioning correctly" implies that something is operating as it should, meeting the minimum requirements. "When functioning optimally", on the other hand, suggests that something is not just working but also performing at its best possible level.