mode of operation
Loading your saved state.
mode of operation
The way in which something, for example a machine, a system, or a process, works.
Können Sie mir bitte die Funktionsweise dieses Geräts erklären?
Could you please explain the mode of operation of this device to me?
The word is made up of 'Funktion' (function), the linking 's', and 'Weise' (way). So it literally describes the 'Art und Weise der Funktion' (the way of functioning).
Die Funktionsweise des neuen Systems ist ziemlich komplex.
The mode of operation of the new system is quite complex.
To say what object's mode of operation is being described, you usually use the genitive or a 'von' construction. The genitive is more common in written language.
Ich verstehe die Funktionsweise des Geräts nicht.
I don't understand the mode of operation of the device.
Common verbs used with 'Funktionsweise' (mode of operation) are 'erklären' (to explain), 'verstehen' (to understand), 'beschreiben' (to describe), and 'kennen' (to know).
Der Techniker hat mir die Funktionsweise der Heizung erklärt.
The technician explained the mode of operation of the heating system to me.
principle
Both words describe how a system or process works. „Die Funktionsweise“ focuses on the overall way something operates, while „das Prinzip“ is more likely to name the underlying logic or basis. Explain the overall process with „Funktionsweise“ and the basic logic with „Prinzip“.
Die Funktionsweise der Solarlampe erklärt, wie der Akku tagsüber geladen wird.
The solar lamp’s mode of operation explains how the battery is charged during the day.
Das Prinzip der Solarlampe ist, dass Sonnenlicht den Akku lädt.
The principle behind the solar lamp is that sunlight charges the battery.
