Example Sentences

Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.

For 30 years Somaliland has functioned as a state.

From The Wall Street Journal • Jan. 7, 2026

The territory declared independence 33 years ago after Somalia descended into civil war - and in many ways has functioned as a de facto nation-state ever since.

From BBC • Jan. 15, 2025

Ever since Mary Shelley wrote “Frankenstein” at age 19, it has functioned as a remarkably versatile Rorschach test, prescient in ways its author could hardly have anticipated.

From New York Times • Feb. 8, 2024

While the city has long turned its back on the river, says Clockshop executive director Sue Bell Yank, for generations of people it has functioned as unofficial public space and improvised backyard.

From Los Angeles Times • Oct. 11, 2023

"As you well know, the Textile Industry, like every other business firm in the world, has functioned entirely without economic troubles of any sort for the past fifty years."

From The Standardized Man by Bartholomew, Stephen