a major failure of

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "a major failure of" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe a significant shortcoming or error in a particular context, such as a project, system, or process. Example: "The report highlighted a major failure of the safety protocols that led to the accident."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

29 human-written examples

"This was a major failure of monitoring".

Independent

When inflation came in the nineteen-seventies that was a major failure of Keynesian economics.

The New Yorker

When inflation came in the nineteen-seventies, that was a major failure of Keynesian economics.

The New Yorker

Surely, this is a major failure of the criminal investigation team?

The Economist

As Kosovo has faded from our attention we have not noticed that the continuing segregation and displacement there is a major failure of international policy.

The Guardian - Opinion

But Ralph D. Crosby Jr., chief executive of EADS North America, said the decision represented "a major failure of the defense acquisition system".

The New York Times

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

31 human-written examples

Many papers are returned to authors because of a major failure to follow instructions.

Environmental Health Perspectives

Since delamination is a major failure mode of layered composites, predicting its initiation is essential for the design of composite structures.

Advances in Engineering Software

Mechanical anomaly is a major failure type of induction motor.

Mechanical Systems and Signal Processing

When following the flexural mode, a major failure pattern of the beams, the structures demonstrated a very interesting feature – linearized deflection curves.

Construction and Building Materials

So that's a pretty major failure of foresight by the world's most famous AI-building entity.

TechCrunch

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using the phrase "a major failure of", ensure that you clearly identify what system, process, or entity experienced the failure. Specificity enhances clarity and impact.

Common error

Avoid using "a major failure of" without providing context. For example, instead of saying "It was a major failure of leadership", specify what aspect of leadership failed and its consequences.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "a major failure of" functions as a noun phrase that identifies a significant deficiency or breakdown within a specific context. As highlighted by Ludwig, the phrase is grammatically correct and usable. It pinpoints a critical shortcoming, often leading to negative consequences.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

48%

Science

40%

Formal & Business

12%

Less common in

Wiki

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "a major failure of" is a grammatically sound and commonly used expression to denote a significant deficiency or breakdown within a specific context. As Ludwig AI confirms, it is appropriate for describing critical shortcomings, often with negative implications. Predominantly found in News & Media and Scientific sources, the phrase maintains a generally neutral to formal register. When using "a major failure of", ensure clear identification of the system or process that has failed to provide context and increase clarity. Alternatives such as "a significant breakdown in" or "a critical deficiency in" can offer nuanced variations in meaning.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

a significant breakdown in

Focuses on the breakdown aspect, emphasizing a loss of functionality or order.

a critical deficiency in

Highlights the lack of something essential, leading to failure.

a serious flaw in

Emphasizes an imperfection that severely impairs effectiveness.

a fundamental weakness in

Points to an inherent vulnerability that contributes to failure.

a glaring inadequacy in

Stresses a conspicuous lack of necessary qualities or resources.

a pronounced shortcoming of

Highlights a noticeable imperfection or limitation.

a notable lapse in

Emphasizes a temporary decline or deviation from expected standards.

a considerable defect in

Focuses on a significant imperfection that undermines quality or performance.

a substantial impairment of

Highlights a significant reduction in ability or function.

a grave dereliction of

Emphasizes a serious neglect of duty or responsibility, resulting in failure.

FAQs

How can I use "a major failure of" in a sentence?

You can use "a major failure of" to describe a significant breakdown or deficiency in a system, process, or entity. For example, "The investigation revealed "a major failure of communication" between departments".

What are some alternatives to "a major failure of"?

Alternatives include "a significant breakdown in", "a critical deficiency in", or "a serious flaw in", depending on the specific nuance you want to convey.

What's the difference between "a major failure of" and "a minor setback for"?

"A major failure of" indicates a significant breakdown with substantial consequences, while "a minor setback for" suggests a temporary and less impactful delay or obstacle. The former implies a serious flaw, the latter a temporary hurdle.

Is it better to use "failure in" or "failure of"?

While both can be correct, "failure of" is generally used to denote what caused the problem (e.g., "a failure of planning"), while "failure in" is often used to describe where the failure occurred (e.g., "a failure in the system").