a big fault

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "a big fault" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe a significant error or flaw in a person's character, a system, or a situation. Example: "His tendency to procrastinate is a big fault that affects his work performance."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Academia

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

7 human-written examples

It's a big fault".

Independent

Stephen Goldsmith, Mr. Bush's chief domestic policy adviser said, "There's a big fault line here".

The New York Times

We usually like to think of a big fault like the San Andreas here in California as one solid unit, reaching more than 800 miles from the Salton Sea to Cape Mendocino.

University of California, Berkeley

As Fitzgerald wrote to his editor, Max Perkins: The worst fault in it is a big fault; I gave no account (and had no feeling or knowledge of) the emotional relations between Daisy and Gatsby from the time of their reunion to the catastrophe.

The Guardian - Film

"On reflection I could have been there for her a lot more, which is probably a big fault of mine".

BBC

Blasting in the vicinity of a big fault could have activated seismic activity".

Wikipedia

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

53 human-written examples

Instead of arguing, admit to them that you made a big mistake, it was your fault, and you're sorry.

WikiHow

Residents and scientists alike play a waiting game in California, uneasily trying to foretell when the big fault itself will go, setting off another geologic convulsion like the one that destroyed San Francisco in 1906.

The New York Times

Devesh Kapur, who leads the Center for Advanced Study of India at the University of Pennsylvania, argues that gender violence is coming to the fore as a public issue partly because India is now less divided by other big fault lines: religion and caste.

The New York Times

"With that big fault there, that outer part of the plate could move independently and make a tsunami a lot more effective," said Shillington.

Columbia University

To be sure, there is nothing in New York like the San Andreas, the big fault line in California.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "a big fault", consider the context and whether a more specific term, such as "flaw", "weakness", or "error", might be more precise.

Common error

Avoid using "a big fault" excessively in formal or academic writing. Opt for more sophisticated vocabulary such as "significant deficiency" or "critical failing" to maintain a professional tone.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "a big fault" functions as a noun phrase, typically serving as a subject complement or object in a sentence. Ludwig AI validates its grammatical correctness, demonstrating its capacity to denote a significant flaw or error.

Expression frequency: Uncommon

Frequent in

News & Media

43%

Academia

29%

Wiki

14%

Less common in

Science

14%

Formal & Business

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "a big fault" is a grammatically correct and usable expression that denotes a significant flaw or error. While Ludwig AI confirms its validity, its occurrence is considered uncommon. Predominantly found in "News & Media" and academic contexts, its register remains relatively neutral, making it suitable for varied forms of communication. When aiming for elevated formality, alternatives such as "a major flaw" or "a significant shortcoming" may be more appropriate.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

a major flaw

Emphasizes the significance of the defect.

a serious defect

Highlights the severity and potential consequences of the fault.

a significant shortcoming

Focuses on the inadequacy or deficiency.

a critical weakness

Points out a vulnerability that could lead to failure.

a major failing

Indicates a significant instance of not meeting expectations.

a substantial error

Highlights the size and impact of the mistake.

a grave mistake

Emphasizes the seriousness and potential consequences of the error.

a fundamental weakness

Points out a deep rooted issue or problem.

a glaring error

Highlights how obvious the mistake is.

a considerable lapse

Indicates a temporary failure of judgment or behavior.

FAQs

How can I use "a big fault" in a sentence?

You can use "a big fault" to describe a significant flaw or error. For example, "His lack of attention to detail is "a big fault" in his work."

What can I say instead of "a big fault"?

You can use alternatives like "a major flaw", "a serious defect", or "a significant shortcoming" depending on the context.

Which is correct, "a big fault" or "a major fault"?

Both ""a big fault"" and "a major fault" are correct, but "a major fault" might be perceived as slightly more formal.

What's the difference between "a big fault" and "a minor fault"?

"A big fault" implies a significant and impactful flaw, while "a minor fault" suggests a smaller, less consequential issue.