C1adjective 1K

Functional

🇬🇧 UK /["/ˈfʌŋkʃənl/"]/ 🇺🇸 US /["/ˈfʌŋkʃənl/"]/

Meaning of Functional

practical and useful; with little or no decoration

In simple words: working well and useful

Functional in a sentence

• 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.

How to use Functional

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.

Related words

Collocations with Functional

• functional design
• functional requirements
• functional skills
• functional area
• functional approach

Synonyms for Functional

• utilitarian

Opposites of Functional

• nonfunctional
• useless
• ineffective

Common mistakes with Functional

• 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.

Frequently asked questions about Functional

What does Functional mean?

working well and useful

What is the definition of Functional?

practical and useful; with little or no decoration

How do you use Functional in a sentence?

Bathrooms don't have to be purely functional.

Can you give another example of Functional?

The office was large and functional rather than welcoming.

What are synonyms for Functional?

Common alternatives include utilitarian.

What is the opposite of Functional?

Opposite meanings include nonfunctional, useless, ineffective.

What words go with Functional?

It commonly pairs with functional design, functional requirements, functional skills, functional area, functional approach.

What are common mistakes when using Functional?

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.

How do you pronounce Functional?

US: /["/ˈfʌŋkʃənl/"]/, UK: /["/ˈfʌŋkʃənl/"]/. Listen to the audio above to hear native pronunciation.

When should I use Functional?

Used when discussing how something works or is usable. Avoid in poetic or highly formal contexts where 'practical' or 'utilitarian' might be preferred.

What CEFR level is Functional?

"Functional" is at C1 level on the CEFR scale.