a computer malfunction

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "a computer malfunction" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it when referring to a failure or problem occurring in a computer system or device. Example: "The project was delayed due to a computer malfunction that caused data loss."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Encyclopedias

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

45 human-written examples

"It was definitely not a computer malfunction," Mr. Miramontez said.

The New York Times

December 2005 — Therapist Overrides a Computer Malfunction A patient undergoing I.M.R.T. for prostate cancer was irradiated incorrectly after a therapist overrode a computer malfunction.

The New York Times

Elections workers in some counties had trouble confirming voter information because of a computer malfunction.

The New York Times

In the previous tax year, it turned away 250,000 customers when a computer malfunction prevented employees from preparing returns.

The New York Times - Tech

NYSE Euronext halted trading in 242 companies for more than 40 minutes because of a computer malfunction.

The New York Times

The company turned away 250,000 customers when a computer malfunction in early January prevented employees from preparing returns.

The New York Times

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

15 human-written examples

When Motorola began cutting back its work force early this year, Fassett, 57, decided to take a voluntary buyout, hoping to test the rumors that Cobol programmers were in demand because of the year 2000 problem--a computer malfunction that will strike hardest on decades-old Cobol programs.

Los Angeles Times

If a computer malfunctions and the blinds don't go up, the pylons carrying the scenery rip through them and the stagehands have a problem.

The New York Times

In May, Gtech came under scrutiny for a 1998 computer malfunction that resulted in a miscount of the number of winners in Britain's national lottery.

The New York Times

The C.I.D. officer wrote that "fake names were used" by members of the task force; he also told investigators that the unit had a "major computer malfunction which resulted in them losing 70 per cent of their files; therefore, they can't find the cases we need to review".

The New Yorker

Federal investigators are looking into an apparent computer malfunction that nearly caused a Northwest Airlines jet to collide with an Air Ontario flight, The Boston Globe reported today.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When describing a computer malfunction, be specific about the symptoms and impact to provide a clearer understanding of the situation. For example, instead of just saying "a computer malfunction", specify "a computer malfunction causing data loss".

Common error

Avoid using overly vague language when describing a computer malfunction. Instead of simply stating that there was "a computer malfunction", provide context about what specific functions were affected or what the consequences were.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "a computer malfunction" functions as a noun phrase, typically used as the subject or object of a sentence to describe a situation where a computer is not working correctly. Ludwig AI confirms its usability.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

40%

Science

20%

Formal & Business

15%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

10%

Wiki

5%

Academia

5%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "a computer malfunction" is a commonly used noun phrase to describe a situation where a computer system isn't functioning correctly. As Ludwig AI confirms, the phrase is correct and usable in written English. It appears frequently in "News & Media", scientific, and formal business contexts. When using the phrase, it's best to be specific about the symptoms and impacts. Alternatives include ""a system error"" or "a technical fault". Be mindful of overuse of vague language and providing context when using "a computer malfunction" in your writing.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

a system error

Focuses on the broader system rather than the computer specifically.

a technical fault

Emphasizes the technical aspect of the issue.

a software glitch

Specifically refers to a problem within the software.

a hardware failure

Points to a physical component malfunction.

a system crash

Describes a sudden and complete system failure.

an operational disruption

Highlights the interruption of normal operations.

a processing error

Focuses on errors during data processing.

a machine breakdown

General term for a machine ceasing to function.

a digital mishap

Informal term for a digital error.

an electronic problem

Broader term encompassing various electronic issues.

FAQs

What are some common causes of "a computer malfunction"?

Common causes include software bugs, hardware failures, power surges, overheating, and malware infections.

How can I prevent "a computer malfunction"?

Regular maintenance, using surge protectors, keeping software updated, running antivirus scans, and ensuring adequate cooling can help prevent malfunctions.

What should I do if I experience "a computer malfunction"?

Try restarting the computer first. If the problem persists, check for error messages, run diagnostic tools, and consider seeking professional help.

What's the difference between "a computer malfunction" and "a system error"?

"A computer malfunction" is a general term for something not working correctly. "A system error" /s/a+system+error is more specific, indicating a problem within the operating system or core software.