At the A1 level, 'işlev' might be a bit advanced, but you can think of it as a way to ask 'What does it do?'. In simple Turkish, instead of 'işlev', we often say 'Ne yapıyor?' (What is it doing?) or 'Ne için?' (For what?). However, you might see this word on labels or very basic instructions for electronics. Just remember that 'işlev' means 'the job of a thing'. For example, the 'işlev' of a pen is writing. You don't need to use this word in daily conversation yet, but recognizing it will help you understand more formal Turkish later on. Think of it as a fancy way to say 'purpose'.
At the A2 level, you start to learn more about how objects work. 'İşlev' is a word you will encounter in user manuals or when talking about parts of a machine. You can use it in simple sentences like 'Bu düğmenin işlevi ne?' (What is the function of this button?). You are also learning possessive suffixes (-ın/-in and -ı/-i), which are very important for this word. You will mostly see it as 'işlevi' (its function). It's a useful word to know when you go to a repair shop or buy a new gadget. It helps you sound more precise than just saying 'Bu ne?' (What is this?).
At the B1 level, 'işlev' becomes a key vocabulary item. You are now expected to talk about abstract concepts and systems. You will use 'işlev' to describe the roles of different organs in the body (biyolojik işlevler) or the roles of different departments in a company. You should also start using the adjective form 'işlevsel' (functional). For example, 'Bu oda çok işlevsel' (This room is very functional/practical). You will also use the phrase 'işlev görmek' to describe something serving a purpose, like 'Bu kutu masa işlevi görüyor' (This box is functioning as a table). This level is where you transition from simple descriptions to more analytical ones.
At the B2 level, you use 'işlev' to participate in debates about society, education, and technology. You can discuss the 'toplumsal işlev' (social function) of media or the 'ekonomik işlev' (economic function) of taxes. You understand that 'işlev' is different from 'amaç' (purpose) because 'işlev' is about the role within a system. You can also use the word in the plural 'işlevler' and add complex suffixes like 'işlevlerinden' (from its functions). Your sentences will become more complex, such as: 'Eğitimin temel işlevlerinden biri bireyi sosyalleştirmektir' (One of the primary functions of education is to socialize the individual).
At the C1 level, 'işlev' is used in academic and professional discourse. You will encounter it in literary analysis, where you discuss the 'işlev' of a specific metaphor or character. You will use it in scientific contexts to describe complex biological or chemical processes. You are expected to distinguish between 'işlev' and its French-origin synonym 'fonksiyon' based on the register of the text. You can also use related terms like 'işlevselcilik' (functionalism) when discussing sociology or linguistics. Your usage should be fluid, allowing you to describe how various elements of a system interact and what specific roles they play in maintaining the whole.
At the C2 level, 'işlev' is a tool for philosophical and highly technical discussion. You might debate the 'varoluşsal işlev' (existential function) of certain human behaviors or the 'işlevsel bütünlük' (functional integrity) of a complex political system. You can use the word to critique systems, perhaps discussing how an institution has become 'işlevsiz' (dysfunctional) over time. You have a deep understanding of the word's history within the Turkish Language Reform and can appreciate why a writer might choose 'işlev' over 'vazife' or 'fonksiyon' for stylistic reasons. Your mastery of the word allows you to use it with absolute precision in any context, from a legal contract to a poetic essay.

işlev 30 सेकंड में

  • İşlev means 'function' or 'role' in a systemic context.
  • It is used for machines, biology, sociology, and technology.
  • Common forms include 'işlevi' (its function) and 'işlevsel' (functional).
  • It differs from 'görev' (duty) by focusing on inherent roles rather than assigned tasks.

The Turkish word işlev is a sophisticated noun that translates to 'function' in English. It is a product of the Turkish Language Reform, derived from the verb root işle- (to work, to process, to operate) combined with the suffix -v, which was used to create modern nouns for abstract concepts. While its synonym fonksiyon is also widely used—especially in mathematics and technical contexts—işlev is preferred in formal writing, social sciences, biology, and everyday descriptions of how things work. It refers to the specific purpose or natural activity of a person, an organ, a machine, or even a grammatical element within a system.

Technical Application
In computer science or engineering, it describes the specific operation a component performs. For instance, the 'işlev' of a processor is to execute instructions.
Biological Context
Doctors use it to describe the health of organs. If a kidney loses its 'işlev', it means it is no longer filtering blood correctly.
Sociological Nuance
In sociology, it refers to the role an institution plays in maintaining social order, such as the 'işlev' of the family unit.

Bu yeni yazılımın temel işlevi veri güvenliğini sağlamaktır.

Translation: The main function of this new software is to ensure data security.

When you use 'işlev', you are often looking at a system and identifying what a specific part contributes to the whole. It is less about a 'job' (which would be or görev) and more about the 'role' or 'operation' inherent to the object's design. For example, a chair's 'işlev' is to provide a place to sit. If you use a chair as a ladder, you are giving it a secondary 'işlev' that it wasn't originally designed for.

Eski binaların modern şehirlerde farklı bir işlev kazanması mümkündür.

Translation: It is possible for old buildings to gain a different function in modern cities.

The word is neutral and formal. You won't hear children using it while playing, but you will hear it in every news broadcast, academic lecture, and corporate meeting. It implies a level of systemic thinking. For instance, rather than saying 'What does this button do?', a more formal way to ask in Turkish would be 'Bu düğmenin işlevi nedir?'. This elevates the register of the conversation significantly.

Sanatın toplumsal işlevi yüzyıllardır tartışılmaktadır.

Translation: The social function of art has been discussed for centuries.
Derived Terms
İşlevsel (Functional), İşlevsellik (Functionality), İşlevsiz (Dysfunctional/Functionless).

Mutfak aletlerinin hem estetik hem de işlevsel olması gerekir.

Translation: Kitchen appliances need to be both aesthetic and functional.

In summary, 'işlev' is a versatile word that bridges the gap between mechanical operations and abstract roles. It allows speakers to describe the 'why' and 'how' of components within any given system, making it an essential tool for B1 learners and above to express complex ideas about technology, biology, and society.

Using işlev correctly requires understanding its grammatical behavior, especially in possessive constructions. Because it ends in a consonant, it follows standard Turkish vowel harmony rules when suffixes are added. Most commonly, you will see it as işlevi (its function) or işlevleri (their functions). It is frequently paired with verbs like görmek (to serve/act as), yitirmek (to lose), and üstlenmek (to undertake/assume).

Possessive Construction
The most common pattern is [Noun] + [Genitive] ... [işlev] + [Possessive]. Example: 'Telefonun işlevi' (The function of the phone).

Bu parçanın makinedeki işlevi nedir?

Translation: What is the function of this part in the machine?

Another frequent usage involves the adjective form işlevsel. This is used to describe something that is practical or works well. If a design is 'işlevsel', it means it prioritizes utility over appearance. Conversely, işlevsiz describes something that no longer works or has no use, often used for broken equipment or outdated laws.

Böbrekler işlevlerini tam olarak yerine getiremiyor.

Translation: The kidneys cannot fully perform their functions.

In administrative or organizational contexts, 'işlev' describes the responsibilities of a department. For example, 'İnsan Kaynakları departmanının işlevleri' refers to the specific roles that HR plays within the company structure. Here, it is synonymous with 'görevler', but 'işlevler' sounds more systemic and structural.

Dilin temel işlevi iletişim kurmaktır.

Translation: The primary function of language is to establish communication.

You will also encounter 'işlev' in the phrase işlev görmek. This means 'to function as' or 'to serve as'. It is very useful when describing an object being used for something other than its primary purpose. For example, 'Bu kutu bir masa işlevi görüyor' (This box is serving as a table).

Bu bina artık bir müze işlevi görüyor.

Translation: This building now functions as a museum.
Verb Pairings
İşlev kazanmak (to gain a function), İşlev yüklemek (to assign a function), İşlevini kaybetmek (to lose its function).

Finally, in literary criticism or linguistics, 'işlev' is used to talk about the purpose of a specific word or character. 'Bu karakterin romandaki işlevi nedir?' asks what role the character plays in the plot. Using this word shows that you are analyzing the structure of the work rather than just describing the story.

Eğitim sisteminin en önemli işlevi bireyi topluma hazırlamaktır.

Translation: The most important function of the education system is to prepare the individual for society.

In Turkey, işlev is omnipresent in professional and academic settings. If you walk into a Turkish university, you will hear it in almost every department. In a biology lecture, a professor might talk about the 'mitokondrinin işlevi' (the function of the mitochondria). In a sociology seminar, the discussion might revolve around the 'ailenin toplumsal işlevi' (the social function of the family). It is a word that signals intellectual rigor and clarity.

In Technology
When reading a user manual for a new smartphone or home appliance, the section describing what the buttons do will be titled 'Düğmelerin İşlevleri'.
In Medicine
Doctors use it in reports. 'Karaciğer işlev testleri' (Liver function tests) is a standard medical term you might see on a blood test result.

Bu cihazın birden fazla işlevi var.

Translation: This device has multiple functions.

News broadcasts also rely heavily on this word. When discussing a new law or a government agency, journalists will ask about its 'işlevi'. For example, if a new ministry is established, the public wants to know: 'Bu bakanlığın tam işlevi ne olacak?' (What will be the exact function of this ministry?). It is used to demand clarity on the purpose of institutions.

Belediyenin işlevlerini daha verimli hale getirmeliyiz.

Translation: We must make the functions of the municipality more efficient.

In the world of art and architecture, 'işlev' is a key debate. The 'form follows function' (biçim işlevi takip eder) principle is a common topic in Turkish design schools. Architects debate whether a building's 'işlevi' (its use as a home or office) should dictate its appearance. This makes the word essential for anyone interested in Turkish creative industries.

Modern mimaride işlev her zaman ön plandadır.

Translation: In modern architecture, function is always at the forefront.
Economic Context
Economists discuss the 'paranın işlevleri' (the functions of money), such as being a medium of exchange or a store of value.

Finally, in the digital age, 'işlev' is used to describe software features. When a new update for an app like WhatsApp comes out, tech bloggers in Turkey will list the 'yeni işlevler' (new functions/features). If you are following Turkish tech news on YouTube or Twitter, you will see this word constantly. It helps users understand what new capabilities they have at their fingertips.

Uygulamanın bu işlevi kullanıcılar tarafından çok sevildi.

Translation: This function of the application was much loved by users.

The most common mistake learners make with işlev is confusing it with görev (duty/task) or amaç (purpose). While they are related, they are not interchangeable. 'Görev' usually refers to a task assigned to a person or a specific duty. 'İşlev' refers to the inherent, systemic role of a thing. A teacher’s 'görev' is to grade papers, but the 'işlev' of a teacher is to facilitate learning within the education system.

İşlev vs. Görev
Use 'görev' for people and assignments. Use 'işlev' for objects, organs, and systems. You wouldn't say a hammer has a 'görev'; you say it has an 'işlev'.
İşlev vs. Amaç
'Amaç' is the 'why' (the intent). 'İşlev' is the 'how it works' (the role). The 'amaç' of a car is to get you to work; its 'işlev' is transportation.

Yanlış: Bu düğmenin görevi nedir?
Doğru: Bu düğmenin işlevi nedir?

Note: While 'görev' is sometimes used colloquially for objects, 'işlev' is more precise for functions.

Another mistake is using the French-origin word fonksiyon in the wrong context. While 'fonksiyon' is perfectly fine in Turkish, it can sometimes sound a bit too 'translated' or overly technical in general prose. Modern Turkish writers often prefer 'işlev' because it feels more native to the language's logical structure. However, in a math class, if you say 'işlev' instead of 'fonksiyon', people will understand you, but it might sound slightly unusual to some traditionalists.

Kalp, vücutta hayati bir işlev görür.

Translation: The heart performs a vital function in the body.

Learners also struggle with the difference between işlevsel and kullanışlı. Both can mean 'useful' or 'practical'. However, 'kullanışlı' is more about ease of use (handy/convenient), while 'işlevsel' is about fulfilling a specific function efficiently. A multi-tool is 'işlevsel' because it has many functions; a bag with many pockets is 'kullanışlı' because it's easy to organize things in it.

Bu mobilya çok işlevsel, hem yatak hem koltuk oluyor.

Translation: This furniture is very functional; it becomes both a bed and a sofa.

Finally, avoid using 'işlev' when you mean 'job' in the sense of employment. If you ask someone 'Senin işlevin ne?' (What is your function?), it can sound quite rude or dehumanizing, as if you are treating them like a machine or a cog in a wheel. Use 'Mesleğiniz ne?' (What is your profession?) or 'Ne iş yapıyorsunuz?' (What work do you do?) instead.

To truly master işlev, you must know how it compares to its synonyms and near-synonyms. Turkish has a rich vocabulary for 'purpose' and 'role', and choosing the right one depends on the level of formality and the specific context.

Fonksiyon
The direct loanword from French. It is almost 100% synonymous with 'işlev'. 'Fonksiyon' is more common in mathematics and older technical texts, while 'işlev' is the modern, preferred term in humanities and general media.
Görev
Means 'duty' or 'task'. While an 'işlev' is what something *does* by nature, a 'görev' is what something is *required* to do. An employee has 'görevler'; a kidney has 'işlevler'.
Rol
Means 'role'. Used more in social or theatrical contexts. 'Bu projedeki rolün ne?' (What is your role in this project?). 'İşlev' could be used here too, but it would sound more technical.

Eski kelime: Vazife (Duty)
Modern kelime: İşlev (Function)

Note: 'Vazife' is an Arabic loanword that was largely replaced by 'görev' and 'işlev' during the language reform.

If you want to emphasize the 'result' or 'utility', you might use yarar (benefit) or fayda (utility/use). For example, 'Bu aletin ne yararı var?' (What is the benefit of this tool?). This focuses on the positive outcome, whereas 'işlev' focuses on the mechanical process.

Bu parçanın işlevi sarsıntıyı azaltmaktır.

Translation: The function of this part is to reduce vibration.

In some contexts, hizmet (service) is an alternative. If a building 'serves' as a hospital, you could say 'hastane olarak hizmet veriyor'. If you want to describe its systemic role, you say 'hastane işlevi görüyor'. The latter sounds more academic and analytical.

Yeni yasayla birlikte kurumun işlevleri genişletildi.

Translation: With the new law, the functions of the institution were expanded.

Finally, consider etki (effect). If something has an 'işlev', it must have an 'etki' on the system. However, 'etki' is the result, while 'işlev' is the defined role. By understanding these nuances, you can move beyond simple translations and start thinking in Turkish like a native speaker.

स्तर के अनुसार उदाहरण

1

Bu düğmenin işlevi nedir?

What is the function of this button?

Simple possessive construction (düğmenin işlevi).

2

Kalemin işlevi yazmaktır.

The function of the pen is to write.

Noun + -ın (genitive) + noun + -i (possessive).

3

Bu bir işlev.

This is a function.

Basic 'This is a...' sentence structure.

4

Onun işlevi çok basit.

Its function is very simple.

Possessive pronoun 'Onun' + 'işlevi'.

5

Gözün işlevi görmektir.

The function of the eye is to see.

Standard 'X-in işlevi Y-dir' pattern.

6

Bu aletin işlevi ne?

What is the function of this tool?

Question particle 'ne' at the end.

7

İşlev çok önemli.

Function is very important.

Subject + adjective.

8

İşlevi biliyorum.

I know the function.

Accusative case (işlev-i) used as a direct object.

1

Mutfaktaki aletlerin farklı işlevleri var.

The tools in the kitchen have different functions.

Plural possessive (işlevleri).

2

Bu parça makinede önemli bir işlev görüyor.

This part serves an important function in the machine.

Compound verb 'işlev görmek'.

3

Telefonun birçok işlevi bulunuyor.

The phone has many functions.

Formal verb 'bulunmak' used for 'to have'.

4

İşlevini anlamadım.

I didn't understand its function.

Possessive + Accusative (işlev-i-n-i).

5

Bu düğme hangi işlevi yerine getiriyor?

Which function does this button perform?

Verb phrase 'yerine getirmek' (to perform/fulfill).

6

Eski telefonun işlevi bitti.

The function of the old phone is over.

Past tense 'bitti'.

7

Her organın bir işlevi vardır.

Every organ has a function.

Universal statement using 'vardır'.

8

Bu yazılımın ana işlevi nedir?

What is the main function of this software?

Adjective 'ana' (main) modifying 'işlevi'.

1

Bu bina artık kütüphane işlevi görüyor.

This building now serves as a library.

Using 'işlev görmek' to describe a role change.

2

Tasarım hem estetik hem de işlevsel olmalı.

The design must be both aesthetic and functional.

Adjective 'işlevsel' and 'olmalı' (must be).

3

Böbrekler vücuttaki süzme işlevini yerine getirir.

The kidneys perform the filtering function in the body.

Specific function 'süzme işlevi'.

4

Bu kuralın artık hiçbir işlevi kalmadı.

This rule no longer has any function.

Negative 'kalmadı' (none left).

5

Uygulamanın yeni işlevlerini keşfediyoruz.

We are exploring the new functions of the application.

Plural accusative possessive (işlev-ler-i-ni).

6

Toplumda ailenin işlevi çok büyüktür.

The function of the family in society is very great.

Abstract usage in sociology.

7

Eski eşyaları farklı işlevlerle kullanabiliriz.

We can use old items with different functions.

Instrumental case 'işlev-ler-le'.

8

Bu departmanın işlevi tam olarak nedir?

What exactly is the function of this department?

Emphasis with 'tam olarak'.

1

Sanatın toplumsal işlevi üzerine bir makale yazdım.

I wrote an article on the social function of art.

Postposition 'üzerine' (on/about).

2

Kurumun işlevlerini yeniden tanımlamamız gerekiyor.

We need to redefine the functions of the institution.

Verb 'yeniden tanımlamak' (to redefine).

3

İşlevini yitirmiş binalar şehre yük oluyor.

Buildings that have lost their function are becoming a burden to the city.

Participle 'yitirmiş' (that has lost).

4

Dilin iletişimsel işlevi her şeyden önce gelir.

The communicative function of language comes before everything.

Comparative 'her şeyden önce' (before everything).

5

Bu proteinin biyolojik işlevi henüz bilinmiyor.

The biological function of this protein is not yet known.

Passive voice 'bilinmiyor'.

6

Yazılım güncellemesi ile birçok yeni işlev eklendi.

Many new functions were added with the software update.

Passive past tense 'eklendi'.

7

Eğitim sisteminin işlevselliği tartışılıyor.

The functionality of the education system is being discussed.

Abstract noun 'işlevsellik'.

8

Bu cihazın asıl işlevi veri depolamaktır.

The main function of this device is to store data.

Adjective 'asıl' (main/original).

1

Metindeki bu karakterin işlevi olay örgüsünü hızlandırmaktır.

The function of this character in the text is to accelerate the plot.

Literary analysis context.

2

Merkez Bankasının temel işlevi fiyat istikrarını sağlamaktır.

The primary function of the Central Bank is to ensure price stability.

Economic terminology.

3

Kültürel mirasın korunması, toplumsal bellek işlevi görür.

The preservation of cultural heritage serves as a social memory function.

Complex metaphoric usage.

4

İşlevselci yaklaşım, her sosyal kurumun bir amacı olduğunu savunur.

The functionalist approach argues that every social institution has a purpose.

Academic term 'İşlevselci'.

5

Genlerin işlevlerini anlamak tıp dünyasında devrim yarattı.

Understanding the functions of genes created a revolution in the medical world.

Infinitive 'anlamak' as subject.

6

Bu kanun maddesi, hukuk sisteminde koruyucu bir işlev üstlenir.

This article of law assumes a protective function in the legal system.

Verb 'üstlenmek' (to assume/undertake).

7

Kentsel dönüşüm, mahallenin işlevini tamamen değiştirdi.

Urban transformation completely changed the function of the neighborhood.

Noun phrase 'kentsel dönüşüm'.

8

Felsefede dilin işlevi üzerine pek çok kuram vardır.

There are many theories in philosophy on the function of language.

Locative 'Felsefede'.

1

Modernist mimaride 'biçim işlevi takip eder' ilkesi esastır.

In modernist architecture, the principle 'form follows function' is fundamental.

Direct quotation within a sentence.

2

Bürokrasinin hantallaşması, devletin temel işlevlerini felce uğratabilir.

The stagnation of bureaucracy can paralyze the basic functions of the state.

Idiom 'felce uğratmak' (to paralyze).

3

Edebiyatta ironi, bazen gerçeği gizleme işlevi görebilir.

In literature, irony can sometimes serve the function of hiding the truth.

Nuanced literary analysis.

4

Yapay zekanın bilişsel işlevleri taklit etme kapasitesi artıyor.

The capacity of artificial intelligence to mimic cognitive functions is increasing.

Technical term 'bilişsel işlevler'.

5

Ritüellerin toplumsal bütünleşme işlevi sarsılmaz bir öneme sahiptir.

The social integration function of rituals has an unshakable importance.

Compound noun 'toplumsal bütünleşme işlevi'.

6

İşlevini yitirmiş paradigmalar bilimsel ilerlemenin önünde engeldir.

Paradigms that have lost their function are obstacles in front of scientific progress.

Complex subject with a participle clause.

7

Anayasa Mahkemesinin denetleme işlevi demokrasinin güvencesidir.

The auditing function of the Constitutional Court is the guarantee of democracy.

Political science context.

8

Psikolojide savunma mekanizmalarının işlevi kaygıyı azaltmaktır.

In psychology, the function of defense mechanisms is to reduce anxiety.

Psychological terminology.

क्या यह मददगार था?
अभी तक कोई टिप्पणी नहीं। अपने विचार साझा करने वाले पहले व्यक्ति बनें!