Multifunctionality Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations
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multifunctionality
[หmสltษชหfสลkสษหnรฆlษชti ]
Definition
useful in many ways
The quality or state of being able to perform multiple functions or tasks efficiently.
Synonyms
adaptability, flexibility, versatility.
Which Synonym Should You Choose?
| Word | Description / Examples |
|---|---|
| multifunctionality |
Refers to something that can perform multiple functions or roles. Often used in the context of tools, technology, or equipment that serves various purposes.
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| versatility |
Refers to the ability to be used in many different ways or to perform various functions. Typically applied to people, tools, or systems.
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| adaptability |
Indicates the ability to adjust to new conditions or environments. Commonly used in personal traits or organisms that can change based on their surroundings.
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| flexibility |
Describes the capacity to bend easily without breaking or the quality of being easily modified. Frequently used in relation to schedules, plans, or physical traits.
|
Examples of usage
- This smartphone offers multifunctionality with its camera, calculator, and calendar apps.
- Modern cars are designed for multifunctionality, offering features such as GPS, bluetooth, and hands-free calling.
Translations
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Interesting Facts
Technology
- Smartphones are a prime example, allowing users to make calls, send messages, browse the internet, and take photos all in one device.
- In software, multifunctionality often takes the form of applications that combine several tools, like scheduling, note-taking, and task management.
- The Internet of Things (IoT) is revolutionizing multifunctionality, connecting various devices to perform different tasks simultaneously.
Design and Architecture
- Modern architecture often incorporates multifunctionality, with spaces designed to serve various purposes, like a living room that can transform into a workspace.
- Furniture designs increasingly reflect multifunctionality, such as sofas that convert into beds or tables with built-in storage.
- In urban planning, multifunctional spaces can help create more efficient and community-oriented environments.
Nature
- Certain organisms exhibit multifunctionality; for instance, some plants can serve as food, shelter, and medicine for other species.
- In ecosystems, a single species may provide various roles, like a tree offering food, shade, and habitat for different wildlife.
- Bees are multifunctional in nature, pollinating plants while also producing honey, which benefits both the ecosystem and humans.
Psychology
- Humans are naturally inclined towards multifunctionality in cognition; our brains can handle multiple tasks, flipping between them rapidly.
- The ability to multitask is often debated among psychologists, with research suggesting that true multitasking might not be possible; instead, switching attention is more accurate.
- In therapy, multifunctionality can manifest in coping strategies where one technique serves various emotional needs or challenges.
Origin of 'multifunctionality'
Main points about word origin
- The word combines 'multi', meaning many, with 'function', referring to a specific action or job.
- It first appeared in the late 20th century as technology advanced, leading to the need for devices that could serve multiple purposes.
- The prefix 'multi-' comes from Latin, while 'function' has its roots in the Latin word 'functio' which means 'performance or execution'.
The term 'multifunctionality' emerged in the late 20th century with the rise of technology and the need for devices to serve various purposes efficiently. It reflects the demand for versatile and adaptable tools in an increasingly complex world where convenience and efficiency are key priorities.
See also: dysfunction, dysfunctional, functional, functionality, functionally, functionaries, functionary, functioning, functions, malfunction, malfunctions, misfunction, multifunctional, nonfunctional, perfunctory.