Cool MateFunctional
UK /["/ˈfʌŋkʃənl/"]/US /["/ˈfʌŋkʃənl/"]/
Definition
practical and useful; with little or no decoration
In simple words: working well and useful
Examples
- Bathrooms don't have to be purely functional.
- The office was large and functional rather than welcoming.
- Items such as musical instruments may be both functional and aesthetically pleasing.
- a functional disorder *(= an illness caused when an organ of the body fails to perform its function)*
- a functional approach to language learning
- These units played a key functional role in the military operation.
- The hospital will soon be fully functional.
Usage notes
Used when discussing how something works or is usable. Avoid in poetic or highly formal contexts where 'practical' or 'utilitarian' might be preferred.
Grammar pattern
functional + adjective/noun
Memory hint
Think of 'function' to remember 'functional' — something that has a purpose and works.
Collocations
- functional design
- functional requirements
- functional skills
- functional area
- functional approach
Synonyms
- utilitarian
Antonyms
- nonfunctional
- useless
- ineffective
Common mistakes
- Confused with 'functioning' — 'functional' describes usefulness, while 'functioning' refers to operating.
- Using 'functional' as a noun — it's only an adjective.
- Overusing in casual conversation; it’s more common in academic or technical discussions.