Functioning
Functioning noun - Process or manner of functioning or operating.
Potential and functioning are semantically related. In some cases you can use "Potential" instead a noun "Functioning".
Potential
Potential noun - Something that can develop or become actual.
Functioning and potential are semantically related. Sometimes you can use "Functioning" instead a noun "Potential".
Both words in one sentence
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Despite the potential applications of this ability, this actually proves less effective than if it were functioning normally—in which case it could wipe out an entire city with little effort.
Source: Series / Kamen Rider Double -
All the elements of epic adventure, pulling victory from the jaws of defeat, and fantastic music are there in all the ways you expect, but they're functioning at their maximum potential.
Source: Franchise / Lunar - Mass Effect: Ascension has Gillian Grayson, a high-functioning autistic preteen with extremely high biotic potential (gravity manipulation/telekinesis).
Source: The Rainman
Cite this Source
Potential and Functioning. (2016). Retrieved 2026, July 21, from https://thesaurus.plus/related/functioning/potential
Functioning & Potential. N.p., 2016. Web. 21 Jul. 2026. <https://thesaurus.plus/related/functioning/potential>.
Potential or Functioning. 2016. Accessed July 21, 2026. https://thesaurus.plus/related/functioning/potential.
Google Ngram Viewer shows how "functioning" and "potential" have occurred on timeline