malfunctioning

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Explanation of "Malfunctioning"

Definition: The word "malfunctioning" is an adjective that describes something that is not working properly or is unable to perform its usual function. For example, if a machine or a device is supposed to do a job but it doesn’t do it right, we say it is malfunctioning.

Advanced Usage:

In more advanced contexts, "malfunctioning" can be used in a broader sense to describe systems or processes that fail to operate effectively, such as in software or organizational behavior.

Word Variants:

• Malfunction (noun): The act of failing to function properly.
  • Example: "The malfunction of the heating system left the house cold."
• Malfunctioned (verb): The past tense of malfunction, meaning it failed to work properly.
  • Example: "The device malfunctioned during the presentation."

Different Meanings:

While "malfunctioning" primarily refers to something that is not working correctly, it can also imply a breakdown in communication or processes in non-physical contexts.

Synonyms:

• Broken
• Defective
• Out of order
• Failing
• Inoperative

Idioms and Phrasal Verbs:

While there are no specific idioms or phrasal verbs that directly use "malfunctioning," you can use phrases related to problems or failures: - "Out of commission": This means something is not working or is temporarily unavailable. - Example: "The elevator is out of commission for repairs."

Summary:

"Malfunctioning" is a useful word to describe anything that is not working right. It has related forms, such as "malfunction" (noun) and "malfunctioned" (verb).

Academic

Adjective

1. not performing or able to perform its regular function
   • a malfunctioning valve

Synonyms

• nonfunctional