Nonfunctional Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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nonfunctional

[nɒnˈfʌŋkʃənl ]

Definition

^{Context #1 | Adjective}

software development

Not performing as expected or not providing the intended functionality. Nonfunctional requirements are specifications that describe the system's attributes such as performance, security, and usability.

Synonyms

defective, faulty, ineffective.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

Word	Description / Examples
nonfunctional	Used to describe something that is not working at all or not serving its intended purpose. Often used in technical or medical contexts. The elevator is nonfunctional, so we have to use the stairs The nonfunctional gene does not produce the necessary protein
ineffective	Used to describe something that doesn't achieve its intended result, often applied to methods, treatments, or strategies. The medicine was ineffective in treating the infection The new marketing campaign was ineffective and didn't increase sales
defective	Describes something that is broken, damaged, or not made correctly, usually implying that it was faulty from the start. Commonly used for products, machinery, or components. The new phone is defective and won't turn on The factory had to recall the defective batch of cars
faulty	Indicates an item has flaws that prevent it from working correctly, often used in technical and consumer contexts. The faulty wiring led to a short circuit We had to replace the faulty printer because it kept jamming

Examples of usage

The nonfunctional aspects of the software need to be addressed before the release.
Nonfunctional testing is essential to ensure the overall quality of the application.

Translations

To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.

Interesting Facts

Technology

In programming, a 'nonfunctional requirement' refers to specifications like performance and reliability, rather than specific behaviors.
Devices labeled as nonfunctional may show signs of wear but can sometimes be repaired or repurposed.

Psychology

In behavioral contexts, nonfunctional behaviors can refer to actions that don’t lead to a desired outcome or help in achieving goals.
Therapists may encourage clients to identify and change nonfunctional habits to improve mental well-being.

Art

In design, nonfunctional art focuses on aesthetics rather than practical use, inviting viewers to think about purpose and utility.
Many sculptures are classified as nonfunctional, emphasizing beauty and expression over utility.

Education

In educational contexts, nonfunctional skills might refer to abilities that don't directly contribute to a student's academic success but enrich their life.
Curriculums sometimes include nonfunctional learning experiences, emphasizing creativity over practical skills.

Origin of 'nonfunctional'

Main points about word origin

The word comes from the prefix 'non-', which means 'not', combined with 'functional', from Latin roots meaning 'to perform'.
It first appeared in English around the 1960s, gaining popularity in various fields like engineering and medicine.

The term 'nonfunctional' originated in the field of software development to distinguish between the requirements that describe how a system should behave (functional requirements) and the requirements that describe system attributes like performance and usability (nonfunctional requirements). The concept has since been adopted in various other industries to differentiate between the core functionality of a product and its supplementary characteristics.