What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
usable
Example
The new software is very usable and user-friendly. [usable: adjective]
Example
The old phone is still usable, but it's not as efficient as the newer models. [usable: adjective]
functional
Example
The new machine is very functional and has many useful features. [functional: adjective]
Example
The old car may not look great, but it's still functional and gets me where I need to go. [functional: adjective]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Usable is more commonly used than functional in everyday language. Usable is versatile and covers a wide range of contexts, while functional is more specific and often used to describe machines, equipment, or systems.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between usable and functional?
Both usable and functional are neutral in terms of formality and can be used in both formal and informal contexts.
