Word
functioning
Phoneticsfunc·tion·ing, stress on the first syllable
US/ˈfəŋkʃənɪŋ/
UK/fˈʌŋkʃənɪŋ/
Definitions
01the way something works
B2 · Upper Intermediate Uncountable noun Academic
n. the way that a machine, system, or body part performs its job.
n. the manner or process by which something operates or performs its intended purpose.
“Doctors are monitoring the normal functioning of his heart after the surgery.”
“The smooth functioning of the global supply chain depends on predictable energy costs and stable international trade agreements.”
Usage
Often used with 'of' to describe the system being discussed.
Synonyms
Antonyms
02working correctly
B2 · Upper Intermediate
adj. working or operating in the right way.
adj. operational or performing a required function; often used to describe a system that is active.
“We finally have a functioning heater in the office now that winter has started.”
“Without a functioning legal framework, it is nearly impossible for small businesses to resolve contract disputes effectively.”
Synonyms
03acting as
B2 · Upper Intermediate
v. working or serving as something else for a short time.
v. the present participle of 'function', describing the act of fulfilling a specific role or suit.
“The old sofa is currently functioning as a bed for our guest.”
“The community centre is functioning as a temporary shelter while the floodwaters recede from the residential districts.”
04coping with daily life
C1 · Advanced Medicine Technical
adj. able to live and work in society despite having a mental health condition or addiction.
adj. describing an individual who maintains a social or professional life despite a chronic condition or disability.
“He was a functioning alcoholic who never missed a day of work despite his habit.”
“The term is often used to describe patients who, despite significant neurodivergence, remain highly functioning within traditional workplace environments.”
Teaching tip
In modern psychology, this term is sometimes seen as reductive; use with care when discussing disability.
Synonyms
Collocations
Common phrases and expressions where native English speakers use the word “functioning” in context.
Adjective
01. mental functioning
“Doctors assessed the patient's mental functioning after the head injury.”
adj + noun
02. social functioning
“The therapy aims to improve the child's social functioning at school.”
adj + noun
Real-World Examples
“These abilities depend on executive functioning, the mental skills that help us plan, focus attention, remember instructions and regulate our behavior.” “These programs recognize the public benefits that green roofs can provide, but they tend to focus on getting the roofs built rather than on keeping them functioning long term.” Word family
NOUN
ADJECTIVE
ADVERB
- 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.B2 FirstIELTSIELTSInternational English Language Testing SystemThe 0–9 band test co-owned by the British Council, IDP, and Cambridge. Used for university entry, work, and migration.5.5–6.5TOEFL 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: 4.0–4.572–94TOEICTOEICTest of English for International CommunicationETS's workplace English test, big in Japan and Korea. Listening & Reading scores 10–990 and tops out at C1.785–944
- Frequency
- Common
- Level
- B2 · Upper Intermediate
- Updated
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