Multifunctionality: meaning, definitions and examples

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multifunctionality

[ˌmʌltɪˌfʌŋkʃəˈnælɪti ]

Definition

^{Context #1 | Noun}

The quality or state of being able to perform multiple functions or tasks efficiently.

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. This printer's multifunctionality allows it to scan, copy, and fax documents, making it ideal for small office environments
versatility	Refers to the ability to be used in many different ways or to perform various functions. Typically applied to people, tools, or systems. John's versatility as an athlete was evident, as he excelled in basketball, baseball, and football
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. Her adaptability made her an excellent candidate for the position, as she could easily handle diverse work situations
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. The flexibility of the work schedule allowed employees to balance their personal and professional lives more effectively

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.

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'.

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.

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.

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.

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.

Translations of the word "multifunctionality" in other languages:

🇵🇹 multifuncionalidade

🇮🇳 बहुउपयोगिता

🇩🇪 Multifunktionalität

🇮🇩 multifungsi

🇺🇦 багатофункціональність

🇵🇱 wielofunkcyjność

🇯🇵 多機能性（たきのうせい）

🇫🇷 multifonctionnalité

🇪🇸 multifuncionalidad

🇹🇷 çok işlevsellik

🇰🇷 다기능성 (dagineungseong)

🇸🇦 متعدد الوظائف

🇨🇿 multifunkčnost

🇸🇰 multifunkčnosť

🇨🇳 多功能性 (duō gōngnéng xìng)

🇸🇮 večfunkcionalnost

🇮🇸 fjölvirkni

🇰🇿 көпфункционалдық

🇬🇪 მრავალფუნქციურობა

🇦🇿 çoxfunksionallıq

🇲🇽 multifuncionalidad