a broken system

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "a broken system" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe a system that is not functioning properly or is ineffective in achieving its intended purpose. Example: "The recent report highlighted the issues within the education sector, revealing that it is indeed a broken system that fails to support students adequately."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Academia

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

40 human-written examples

It's a broken system".

The New Yorker

"It's a broken system," she said.

The New York Times

Industry-sponsored clinical research: a broken system.

Harvard University

"Would you consider expanding a broken system?

The Guardian

"The reality is, we've got a broken system".

The New York Times

How do we fix a broken system?

TechCrunch

The list above describes a broken system.

Forbes

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

4 human-written examples

"This is a rotten, broken system".

The Guardian

Rebuilding a broken education system?

The New York Times

Fixing a broken immigration system.

Independent

We have a broken electoral system.

Independent

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using the phrase "a broken system", clearly identify the specific area or aspect of the system that is not functioning correctly to provide context and avoid ambiguity. For example, specify "a broken healthcare system" or "a broken education system".

Common error

Avoid using "a broken system" as a vague, catch-all critique. Instead, pinpoint specific flaws and provide evidence to support your claim. Overgeneralizing can weaken your argument and make it less persuasive.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "a broken system" functions as a descriptive term, where the adjective "broken" modifies the noun "system". According to Ludwig AI, this phrase is grammatically correct and is used to identify and categorize systems that are not functioning as intended.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

60%

Academia

20%

Formal & Business

10%

Less common in

Science

5%

Encyclopedias

3%

Wiki

2%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "a broken system" is a common phrase used to describe an institution or process that is not functioning effectively and needs reform. Ludwig AI confirms its grammatical correctness, with examples found predominantly in news and media, as well as academic contexts. While inherently negative, it's used in neutral reporting to highlight issues across various sectors. For more nuanced expression, alternatives like ""a dysfunctional system"" or ""a flawed system"" can be considered. When employing the phrase, specify the system in question to maintain clarity and credibility.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

a dysfunctional system

Replaces "broken" with "dysfunctional", emphasizing the impaired functionality of the system.

a flawed system

Substitutes "broken" with "flawed", highlighting inherent imperfections or weaknesses within the system.

a defective system

Uses "defective" instead of "broken", focusing on faults or shortcomings preventing proper operation.

a failing system

Replaces "broken" with "failing", suggesting that the system is not meeting expectations or achieving desired results.

a corrupt system

Implies that the system is not only broken but also morally compromised or dishonest.

a deficient system

Highlights that the system lacks essential qualities or elements necessary for its proper functioning.

a crumbling system

Suggests the system is deteriorating or collapsing, using "crumbling" as a more vivid descriptor.

a problematic system

Uses "problematic" to indicate that the system presents difficulties and challenges.

a deficient structure

Shifts focus from "system" to "structure", emphasizing the underlying organizational framework's inadequacy.

a bankrupt process

Replaces "system" with "process", indicating a failure in the sequential steps or actions.

FAQs

What does it mean to describe something as "a broken system"?

Describing something as "a broken system" means it is not functioning correctly or effectively, often requiring significant changes or reforms to fix its problems.

How can I use "a broken system" in a sentence?

You can use "a broken system" to describe various institutions or processes. For example: "The report highlighted that the criminal justice system is "a broken system" needing urgent reform."

What are some alternatives to saying "a broken system"?

Alternatives to "a broken system" include "a dysfunctional system", "a flawed system", or "a failing system". The best choice depends on the specific context and nuance you want to convey.

Is it always negative to describe something as "a broken system"?

Yes, describing something as "a broken system" typically carries a negative connotation, implying significant problems, inefficiencies, or failures within the system. It suggests a need for improvement or repair.