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noun B2 Upper-Intermediate Common

functionality

funk-shuh-NAL-ih-tee
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Functionality (noun) means the set of things a piece of software, equipment or system is able to do. Example: “The free plan has limited functionality, so you cannot export your data.”

noun
1
The set of things a piece of software, equipment or system is able to do.
"The free plan has limited functionality, so you cannot export your data."
"The update added search functionality to the mobile app."
"The new phone has extra functionality, including a built-in translator."
2
The quality of working well and serving a practical purpose, as opposed to simply looking good.
"The kitchen was designed for functionality rather than show."
"Good chairs combine comfort with functionality, not just a pretty shape."
"The tool's plain design puts functionality first, so it feels simple but works well."

How to use functionality

Learner’s notes

In plain EnglishWhat something can actually do.

When to use it

Common in technology, business and product writing; in everyday speech people usually just say what it does.

Memory tip

Functionality is usually uncountable: say 'more functionality', not 'more functionalities', unless you are contrasting several distinct sets of features.

Trace the full origin ↓
Easily confused with
function → feature → usability →
Common pairings
core functionality added functionality limited functionality search functionality full functionality
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Fill the gap

Can you complete this real example?

The free plan has limited _____, so you cannot export your data.

Etymology

From functional, itself from function (Latin functio, 'performance, execution'), plus the noun-forming suffix -ity.

Origin: English

Synonyms

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features capability utility operation practicality usefulness serviceability

Antonyms

ornamentation

Related words

power face looks process value performance potential operation

Rhymes for functionality

city deity acuity parity brevity opacity paucity ability quality reality annuity gravity
See all rhymes for functionality →

Frequently asked questions

What is the difference between function and functionality?
A function is one specific thing something does, such as a calculator's square-root function. Functionality is the whole range of things it can do, so a calculator's functionality includes all of its functions together. Function counts individually; functionality is normally treated as a mass noun.
What is the difference between functionality and usability?
Functionality is about what a product can do; usability is about how easily a person can do it. A tool can have enormous functionality and still be almost unusable if the controls are confusing.
Is 'functionalities' correct?
It is acceptable but rare, and it sounds bureaucratic. Use it only when you mean several separate feature sets, such as 'the reporting and billing functionalities'; otherwise keep functionality singular.
What is the meaning of functionality?
"functionality" (noun) means the set of things a piece of software, equipment or system is able to do.

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