will not function

USAGE SUMMARY

"will not function" is a perfectly correct and usable phrase in written English.
You can use it to describe an object, a system, or a process that is not working properly. For example, "The air conditioning unit will not function until it has been serviced."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

When blood vessels are altered in shape and quality, they can heal but will not function normally, Dr. Sundel said.

The New York Times - Health

But we should not build a city now that we know will not function in 2100.

The New York Times

A formula clause that splits assets between nieces and charity will not function as intended.

The New York Times

Sometimes, however, the door hops off the track -- this may happen if the track or rollers are damaged -- and will not function properly.

The New York Times

For blinds that will not function if the loop is cut, there is a wall-mounted plastic device that the loop can be pulled around.

The New York Times

And yet, in situations where national courts cannot or will not function, supra-national judges play a critical role in standing up for the rule of law.

The Guardian

Every wing, as well as the tail, has a stall speed, a minimum speed below which it will not function correctly.

The New York Times

I suspect that consumers are reluctant to pay $200 for equipment that will not function if the service is ever suspended.

The New York Times

If water pressure is too low, he said, the system will not function properly even if there is plenty of water available.

The New York Times

Immediately, the opposition members walk to the well of the house, shouting, "Nahi chalegi, nahi chalegi" ("will not function, will not function") and "Manmohan Singh gaddi choro!" ("Manmohan Singh, leave the chair").

The New York Times

But, without order, donors will withhold large-scale aid, businesses will not function and taxes will stay uncollected.

The Economist

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "will not function", ensure the context clearly indicates what the subject is and why it won't function. Providing a reason or condition adds clarity.

Common error

Avoid using "will not function" without specifying the system or component that is affected. Be precise about what is failing or unable to operate.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "will not function" primarily serves as a declarative statement indicating a future inability to perform a specific action or operate correctly. As Ludwig AI confirms, it's a correct phrase. Ludwig examples showcase its usage in various contexts like technical failures, system errors, or biological malfunctions.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

35%

Science

35%

Wiki

15%

Less common in

Formal & Business

5%

Encyclopedias

5%

Social Media

5%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "will not function" is a versatile phrase used to indicate the future inability of something to operate correctly. As Ludwig AI confirms, the phrase is grammatically correct. With numerous examples spanning news, science, and wiki sources, its frequency and broad applicability are evident. While generally neutral, its formality can vary based on context. When using the phrase, ensure clarity by specifying the affected component and providing a reason for its inoperability. Alternative phrases like "will be inoperable" or "will cease to operate" can add nuance depending on the desired level of formality.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

will be inoperable

Focuses on the state of being unable to operate.

will cease to operate

Emphasizes the termination of operation.

will fail to work

A more informal way of expressing the same idea.

will become non-functional

Highlights the change of state to being non-functional.

will be out of order

Commonly used for machines and systems that are temporarily not working.

will break down

Implies a sudden failure in operation.

will be unusable

Focuses on the inability to use something.

will stop working

A straightforward and simple alternative.

will be defective

Indicates a flaw that prevents proper operation.

will prove ineffective

Highlights the lack of desired effect or outcome.

FAQs

How can I rephrase "will not function" in a formal context?

In formal writing, you can substitute "will not function" with phrases such as "will be inoperable", "will cease to operate", or "will become non-functional".

What's a simpler way to say "will not function"?

For simpler alternatives, consider using phrases like "will fail to work" or "will stop working" depending on the context.

When is it appropriate to use "will not function"?

"Will not function" is suitable when describing systems, devices, or processes that are unable to perform their intended purpose due to a specific reason or condition. The phrase is widely used and accepted.

Is there a difference between "will not function" and "will not work"?

While "will not function" and "will not work" are often interchangeable, "will not function" tends to be slightly more formal and is often used when referring to technical or mechanical systems, and the latter is the more generic.