to work
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to work
To operate correctly, deliver the expected performance, or fulfill the intended purpose. This applies to devices, systems, plans, or even social interactions.
Der alte Computer funktioniert erstaunlicherweise immer noch einwandfrei.
Surprisingly, the old computer still works perfectly.
'Funktionieren' (to work / to function) is a verb ending in '-ieren', which often indicates a foreign-language origin. These verbs are always regular and form the past participle without the prefix 'ge-'.
Der Drucker hat gestern noch perfekt funktioniert.
The printer was still working perfectly yesterday.
The subject of 'funktionieren' (to work / to function) is typically not a person, but a device, a machine, a system, or an abstract plan. It describes whether something fulfills its purpose.
Die Heizung funktioniert nicht richtig.
The heating isn't working properly.
The verb is not only used for technical devices, but also for abstract concepts such as plans, strategies, or social relationships.
Die Zusammenarbeit in unserem Team funktioniert sehr gut.
The collaboration in our team works very well.
to go
'gehen' and 'funktionieren' can both say that something works correctly or is possible. In this meaning, 'gehen' is very colloquial and brief. For example, you say 'Der Fernseher geht nicht' (the TV doesn't work) or 'Geht das morgen?' (Does tomorrow work?). 'funktionieren' is more precise and fits well with devices, plans, systems, or processes. It sounds somewhat more matter-of-fact. Learners may confuse the words because 'gehen' also means movement. But when it is about a device or a plan, 'gehen' often does not mean movement, but 'to function' or 'to be possible'.
Im Büro funktioniert der Drucker heute nicht.
The printer at the office isn't working today.
Mein Handy geht wieder, seit ich es neu gestartet habe.
My phone works again since I restarted it.