multifunctional

Meanings

1. 1adjectivenot comparable

   Designed to carry out several different tasks or jobs, not just one.

   Grammar: Usually stands before the noun it describes: a multifunctional tool. It is not normally used for people.

   Patterns

   • multifunctional device
   • multifunctional tool
   • multifunctional printer
   • multifunctional furniture

   My multifunctional watch tracks my sleep, heart rate, and daily steps.

   They chose a multifunctional printer that also scans and copies documents.

   The sofa is multifunctional: it folds out into a bed with storage underneath.

2. 2adjectivenot comparablefigurative

   Serving several different purposes or roles at the same time.

   Grammar: Used for places, plans, or roles rather than machines; still most natural before a noun.

   Patterns

   • multifunctional space
   • multifunctional role
   • multifunctional design

   In a small company, every employee takes on a multifunctional role.

   The architect planned a multifunctional square for markets, concerts, and festivals.

Common combinations

multifunctional device

A smartphone is the most common multifunctional device people carry.

multifunctional furniture

Multifunctional furniture helps make the most of a small apartment.

multifunctional space

The library was redesigned as a multifunctional space with study areas and a café.

Synonyms and how they differ

multipurpose

Very close in meaning; multipurpose is the more everyday choice for objects, while multifunctional sounds more technical.

versatile

Can describe people as well as things, emphasizing the ability to adapt to many uses.

all-in-one

Informal and mainly used for devices or products that combine several functions in one unit.

Opposites

Word family

function noun

A purpose or task that something is designed to perform.

function verb

To work or operate in a particular way.

functional adjective

Designed to be practical and useful rather than decorative.

multifunction noun

The ability to perform several functions, used mainly in product descriptions.

Practice

Make it your own

Write a sentence using “multifunctional”, then check it and compare it with the examples above.

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