functional

/'fʌɳkʃənl/

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Explanation of the Word "Functional"

Part of Speech: Adjective

Examples

1. Everyday Use: "The toaster is still functional, even after being dropped." (This means the toaster still works.)
2. Architecture: "The building has a functional design, focusing on practicality rather than appearance." (This means the building is designed to be useful.)
3. Education: "Functional education emphasizes practical skills that students can use in real life." (This refers to education that teaches useful knowledge.)

Advanced Usage

In more complex contexts, "functional" can also refer to how something operates within a system. For example: - Functional Analysis: In mathematics, this refers to the study of functions and their properties. - Functional Programming: In computer science, this is a programming paradigm that treats computation as the evaluation of mathematical functions.

Word Variants

1. Function (noun): The specific purpose or role of something.
   • Example: "The function of the heart is to pump blood."
2. Functionality (noun): The quality of being functional; the range of functions that something can perform.
   • Example: "The app has many useful functionalities."
3. Functionally (adverb): In a way that is practical or useful.
   • Example: "The kitchen is functionally organized for easy cooking."

Different Meanings

• Functional Deafness: This term refers to a type of hearing loss that is not due to a physical problem in the ear but can be caused by psychological factors.
• Functional Style in Writing: This refers to writing that is clear and straightforward, focusing on conveying information rather than artistic expression.

Synonyms

• Operational
• Usable
• Practical
• Effective
• Serviceable

Idioms and Phrasal Verbs

While there aren't many idioms or phrasal verbs directly related to "functional," you might encounter phrases like: - "Function as": To act in a specific role. - Example: "She will function as the team leader during the project."

Summary

"Functional" is a versatile word that implies usefulness and purpose. You can use it to describe objects, systems, or even educational methods that are practical and effective.

Academic

Adjective

1. (of e.g. a machine) performing or capable of performing
   • in running (or working) order
   • a functional set of brakes
2. designed for or adapted to a function or use
   • functional education selects knowledge that is concrete and usable rather than abstract and theoretical
   • functional architecture
3. fit or ready for use or service
   • the toaster was still functional even after being dropped
   • the lawnmower is a bit rusty but still usable
   • an operational aircraft
   • the dishwasher is now in working order
4. relating to or based on function especially as opposed to structure; it is a functional one"
   • the problem now is not a constitutional one
   • delegates elected on a functional rather than a geographical basis
5. involving or affecting function rather than physiology
   • functional deafness
6. designed for or capable of a particular function or use
   • a style of writing in which every word is functional
   • functional architecture

Synonyms

• running
• operative
• working
• usable
• useable
• operable
• operational