功能 (gōngnéng)

功能 refers to the specific function, feature, or capability of something — what a device, system, body part, or tool is designed or able to do.

Meanings

[noun] function, feature, capability, functionality

Example Sentences

这款手机有很多实用的功能。 Zhè kuǎn shǒujī yǒu hěn duō shíyòng de gōngnéng. This smartphone has many practical features.

大脑的主要功能之一是处理信息。 Dànǎo de zhǔyào gōngnéng zhī yī shì chǔlǐ xìnxī. One of the brain's main functions is to process information.

这个软件的搜索功能非常强大。 Zhège ruǎnjiàn de sōusuǒ gōngnéng fēicháng qiángdà. The search function of this software is very powerful.

心脏的功能是把血液输送到全身。 Xīnzàng de gōngnéng shì bǎ xuèyè shūsòng dào quánshēn. The function of the heart is to pump blood throughout the body.

Collocations

Collocation	Meaning
主要功能	main function
功能强大	powerful functionality
多功能	multi-function / versatile
恢复功能	restore function / functional recovery

Usage Notes

功能 is commonly used when talking about technology, biology, or systems. It differs from 作用 (effect/role) in that 功能 refers to an inherent designed capability, while 作用 emphasizes the impact or effect something has. For example: 手机的功能 (the phone's features) vs. 手机的作用 (the role/effect of mobile phones).

Memory Hook

功 (achievement/work) + 能 (ability/can) = "what it is able to achieve" = function/capability.