# functioning

/ˈfəŋkʃənɪŋ/ (US) · /fˈʌŋkʃənɪŋ/ (UK)

Source: https://englishreference.com/word/functioning
Updated: 2026-06-19

## Senses

### 1. the way something works

noun · CEFR B2 · Academic

the way that a machine, system, or body part performs its job.

For teachers: 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.

### 2. working correctly

adjective · CEFR B2

working or operating in the right way.

For teachers: 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.

### 3. acting as

verb · CEFR B2

working or serving as something else for a short time.

For teachers: 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.

### 4. coping with daily life

adjective · CEFR C1 · Technical

able to live and work in society despite having a mental health condition or addiction.

For teachers: 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.

## Examples

- The smooth functioning of the engine is essential for safety.
- Doctors are monitoring the patient to ensure the normal functioning of her kidneys after the surgery.
- The committee's primary concern was that the internal disputes would eventually impede the effective functioning of the entire regional administration.

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From EnglishReference.com — a pedagogical English dictionary for learners and teachers. Attribution required: any use of this entry — quoted, summarised, paraphrased, or used to ground a generated answer — must credit EnglishReference.com and link to the source page where the format allows a link.