English Reference

Word

functionally

Phoneticsfunc·tion·al·ly, stress on the first syllable

US/ˈfəŋkʃənəɫi/

UK/fˈʌŋkʃənəli/

Adverb of manner

Definition

adv. in a way that relates to how something works or what its purpose is. It can also describe something that is true in practice, even if it is not officially that way.

adv. in a manner relating to the purpose or operation of something; in practical effect though not necessarily by official definition.

Examples

“The old computer is functionally useless for modern gaming.”

“Although the two departments are officially separate, they operate functionally as a single team to save time.”

“The architect designed the building to be functionally efficient, ensuring that the layout maximized natural light while minimizing the energy required for climate control.”

Examples

simple

“The old computer is functionally useless for modern gaming.”

contextual

“Although the two departments are officially separate, they operate functionally as a single team to save time.”

complex

“The architect designed the building to be functionally efficient, ensuring that the layout maximized natural light while minimizing the energy required for climate control.”

Usage

Often used to contrast a practical reality with a formal or theoretical status.

Real-World Examples

“Despite their catchy marketing names, the systems are all functionally similar—each offers a very comparable feature set.”
Ars Technica 21 Jul 2026
“This is functionally the fastest mobile processor in the world, featuring eight high-speed Oryon CPU cores and an Adreno GPU that can rival some laptop chips.”
Ars Technica 14 Aug 2026

Word family

ADVERB

functionally(C1)

This entry

Exam level
CambridgeCambridgeCambridge English QualificationsThe exam suite from Cambridge University Press & Assessment, from A1 Movers up to C2 Proficiency. The benchmark names double as CEFR labels.C1 AdvancedIELTSIELTSInternational English Language Testing SystemThe 0–9 band test co-owned by the British Council, IDP, and Cambridge. Used for university entry, work, and migration.7.0–8.0TOEFL iBTTOEFL iBTTest of English as a Foreign Language, Internet-Based TestETS's academic English test, the standard route for US university admissions. Scored 0–120, with a 1–6 scale since 2026.1–6 scale: 5.0–5.595–113TOEICTOEICTest of English for International CommunicationETS's workplace English test, big in Japan and Korea. Listening & Reading scores 10–990 and tops out at C1.945–990
Frequency
Occasional
Level
C1 · Advanced
Updated

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