working properly

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "working properly" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe something that is functioning as intended or without issues. Example: "After the recent updates, the software is now working properly and efficiently."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

Their "gate" wasn't working properly.

The New Yorker

This is government working properly".

The New York Times

Your veins aren't working properly.

The New York Times

Even the shadow's engines aren't working properly.

The Guardian

Djokovic's serve still isn't working properly.

The Guardian - Sport

At the moment it's not working properly.

The Guardian

The day I visited, the digital scanner wasn't working properly.

The New York Times - Arts

Then get your communications and logistics working properly".

The New York Times - Magazine

It took 11 days before the operation was working properly.

Independent

However, contactless debit cards were still working properly.

Independent

"And go really easy, in case something's not working properly.

The New Yorker

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When describing a complex system or process, use "working properly" to assure the audience that it is functioning as intended. For example: "After the software update, the data synchronization is now working properly."

Common error

Avoid using "working properly" with simple verbs like "is" or "was" when a more direct adjective would suffice. Instead of "The machine is working properly", consider "The machine is efficient" or "The machine is reliable."

Linguistic Context

The phrase "working properly" functions as an adverbial phrase modifying a verb. It indicates the manner in which an action is performed, specifying that it is done correctly and as intended. Ludwig AI examples show it describing machines, systems, and even abstract concepts like government.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

39%

Wiki

35%

Science

19%

Less common in

Formal & Business

7%

Encyclopedias

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "working properly" is a versatile and commonly used adverbial phrase that indicates correct functionality. Ludwig AI analysis confirms it is grammatically sound and suitable for various contexts, especially in news, wiki, and scientific domains. While alternatives like "functioning correctly" or "operating as intended" exist, "working properly" provides a clear and direct way to convey that something is functioning as expected. Be mindful of avoiding redundancy and ensure it fits the tone of your writing.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

functioning correctly

Replaces "working" with "functioning", emphasizing the operational aspect.

operating as intended

Highlights that the operation aligns with the design and expectations.

running smoothly

Focuses on the absence of problems or interruptions in the process.

in good working order

Implies the item or system is in a suitable condition for its intended use.

performing optimally

Suggests the highest level of performance within the given constraints.

in proper working condition

Similar to "in good working order" but slightly more formal.

working as expected

Emphasizes that the results align with anticipations or design specifications.

duly functional

A more formal way of saying "functional", emphasizing its proper state.

serviceable

Implies that the item is in a state fit for service or use.

working efficiently

Highlights that the work is done without wasting resources.

FAQs

How can I use "working properly" in a sentence?

Use "working properly" to describe something functioning as intended. For instance: "The new system is now working properly after the update" or "Ensure all safety mechanisms are working properly before operation".

What are some alternatives to "working properly"?

You can use alternatives like "functioning correctly", "operating as intended", or "running smoothly" depending on the specific context.

Is it redundant to say something is "working properly and efficiently"?

While both terms describe positive function, "working properly" indicates correct function, while "efficiently" implies resource optimization. Using both emphasizes that the system is both correct and optimized.

What is the difference between "working properly" and "working correctly"?

While similar, "working properly" often refers to a system functioning as designed, while "working correctly" focuses on accuracy and lack of errors in the output or results.