a device malfunction

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "a device malfunction" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when referring to a failure or problem occurring in a device, such as electronics or machinery. Example: "The technician reported that a device malfunction caused the system to shut down unexpectedly."

✓ Grammatically correct

Science

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

2 human-written examples

This time it wasn't a device malfunction.

The New York Times

The most common decision among respondents related to a device malfunction was its disinvestment or discontinued use in clinical procedures.

BMC Health Services Research

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

58 human-written examples

And in 2008 Dr Fu and his colleagues published a paper detailing the remote, wireless reprogramming of an implantable defibrillator.When software in a medical device malfunctions, the consequences can be far more serious than just having to reboot your PC.

The Economist

Four recordings were excluded as a result of obvious device malfunction.

Diabetes Care

During the testing, a mechanical device malfunctioned as the containment dome was lowered into the water, and a submarine robot became tangled in some of the dome's anchor lines.

The New York Times

Shell said a mechanical device malfunctioned on the dome as it was being lowered into the water.

The New York Times

So far, the published literature supports the use of RM as this allows for a more rapid detection of arrhythmias or device malfunction, reduces hospital visits and inappropriate shock, improves patients' quality of life and even mortality.

Encyclopedia of Cardiovascular Research and Medicine

He was planning to show how this could be exploited to make the device malfunction or shut down, using a signal sent from up to 30 feet (9 metres) away.

The Economist

Device malfunction rates are improving; over a 2-year period, less than 10% of implantable third-generation pumps require replacement [ 64].

Critical Care

In order to avoid medical device malfunction, it is recommended to maintain a distance from the transmitting device greater than 1 m.

BioMed Research International

This prototype design of a cryotherapy gas conditioner is a potential solution for low-resource settings that are experiencing cryotherapy device malfunction.

BMC Women's Health

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When describing "a device malfunction", be specific about the type of device and the nature of the malfunction to provide clarity and context.

Common error

Avoid attributing "a device malfunction" to vague reasons. Instead, investigate and specify whether the issue stems from software, hardware, or user error.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "a device malfunction" functions primarily as a noun phrase, often serving as the subject or object of a sentence. It identifies a specific instance of a device failing to operate correctly. As seen in Ludwig, this phrase is commonly used to describe technical issues across various contexts.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

Science

50%

News & Media

50%

Formal & Business

0%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

0%

Wiki

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "a device malfunction" is a common and grammatically sound phrase used to describe an instance where a device fails to operate correctly. Ludwig AI confirms its correctness and usability in written English. It is prevalent in both scientific and news contexts, indicating a neutral register. When using the phrase, it is best to be specific about the device and the nature of the malfunction. Alternatives include "equipment failure" or "technical fault". Avoid vague explanations for the cause of the malfunction to ensure clarity.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

equipment failure

Focuses on the failure of the equipment rather than the specific nature of the malfunction.

technical fault

Highlights the technical aspect of the problem, suggesting a specific error in the device's operation.

system error

Indicates a problem within the device's system, implying a broader issue than a simple malfunction.

mechanical breakdown

Specifically refers to a failure in the mechanical components of the device.

operational defect

Emphasizes a flaw in the device's operation, suggesting a design or manufacturing issue.

instrument error

Specifically applies to instruments and their inaccuracies or failures.

hardware issue

Points to a problem with the physical components of the device.

software glitch

Refers to a minor problem or malfunction in the device's software.

component failure

Highlights that a specific part or component within the device has failed.

breakdown of machinery

General term indicating a failure or stoppage in the functioning of machinery.

FAQs

How can I use "a device malfunction" in a sentence?

You can use "a device malfunction" to describe a situation where a device is not working as expected. For example: "The experiment was delayed due to "a device malfunction"."

What are some alternatives to "a device malfunction"?

Alternatives include "equipment failure", "technical fault", or "system error", depending on the specific context.

Is it more appropriate to say "device malfunction" or "device failure"?

"Device malfunction" and "device failure" are often used interchangeably, but "malfunction" suggests a specific issue or error, while "failure" implies a complete cessation of function. The best choice depends on the context and the specific situation.

What causes "a device malfunction"?

"A device malfunction" can be caused by various factors, including hardware issues, software bugs, power failures, or user error. The specific cause often requires investigation to determine.