1.
function, capability, role
The natural action or purpose that something is designed to perform. Used for the functions of organs, machines, systems, or organizations.
心臓の機能が低下している。
Heart function is declining.
この組織は正常に機能していない。
This organization is not functioning properly.
脳の機能について研究している学者が多い。
There are many researchers studying brain function.
2.
feature, functionality
A specific capability or feature of a device, software, or system. Common in technology and product descriptions.
この機能は便利だ。
This feature is useful.
新しい機能が追加された。
A new feature was added.
このアプリにはカメラで文字を読み取る機能がついている。
This app has a feature that reads text using the camera.
ETYMOLOGY:
機 (machine, mechanism) + 能 (ability, capability). Literally "the ability of a mechanism."
USAGE:
As a する verb, 機能する means "to function" or "to work." Often used in negative contexts: 機能しない (doesn't function), 機能していない (is not functioning). Note the homophone 昨日 (yesterday), which has a completely different meaning.
COMMON COLLOCATIONS:
- 機能する: to function, to work
- 機能が低下する: function declines
- 機能を果たす: to fulfill a function
- 機能を追加する: to add a feature
- 高機能: high-performance, feature-rich
- 多機能: multifunctional