a serious fault

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "a serious fault" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe a significant error or defect in a system, process, or behavior. Example: "The engineer identified a serious fault in the design that could lead to catastrophic failure."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Encyclopedias

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

13 human-written examples

"This is a serious fault in the inquisitorial system as it operates in Brazil".

The Guardian

But there is a serious fault line running through England's one-day batting.

The Guardian - Sport

It is at this point that a serious fault line demarcates future relations between Israel and Iran's potentially democratic regime.

The Guardian - Opinion

To delay publishing the results of an excavation within a reasonable time is a serious fault from the point of view of archaeological method.

Encyclopedia Britannica

"Swingtown," as part of its fetish for authenticity, has impeccably and precisely horrible costumes and sets, but, to a serious fault, it makes use of the most overplayed music of the period.

The New Yorker

"The facts constitute a serious fault on the side of Morgan Stanley, to the detriment of LVMH," said Gilbert Costes, the top ranking judge of the Commercial Court of Paris.

The New York Times

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

45 human-written examples

What has been described as a "very serious" fault has been discovered in a French nuclear power station with an identical design to that proposed at Hinkley.

Independent

It is, I think, a most serious fault for surgeons to assume that there is nothing wrong in the hip-joint, unless some of these very conspicuous symptoms be present.

Clinical Orthopaedics and Related Research

If the diagnostic program finds any serious faults in the memory you will see it display a memory dump in this section.

WikiHow

Shakespeare portrays the public as fickle, but it's not unreasonable to admire some of a leader's qualities while finding serious fault with others.

The New York Times - Magazine

The most serious fault is that even a gentle knock can separate the phone from its clip-on battery, causing a lost connection or an unexpected tumble.

The New York Times - Tech

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Consider using synonyms like "critical error" or "major defect" if "a serious fault" has been used multiple times in the same document to avoid repetition.

Common error

While "a serious fault" is grammatically correct, it can sound overly formal or dramatic in everyday conversation. Opt for simpler terms like "big problem" or "major issue" in informal settings.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "a serious fault" functions primarily as a noun phrase, where "serious" modifies the noun "fault". As Ludwig AI indicates, this phrase is used to describe a significant error or defect.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

58%

Science

25%

Wiki

17%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

4%

Formal & Business

0%

Social Media

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "a serious fault" is a grammatically correct and frequently used phrase to describe a significant error or defect. Ludwig AI confirms its usability in written English. While versatile, it is most commonly found in news, scientific, and encyclopedic contexts. When writing, consider using synonyms like "a major defect" or "a critical error" to avoid repetition. Also, be mindful of the formality level; while appropriate for technical reports and news, simpler alternatives may be better suited for informal conversations. The phrase serves to highlight the presence of a potentially dangerous or consequential issue.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

a major defect

Emphasizes the presence of a significant imperfection or flaw.

a critical error

Highlights the potential for severe consequences due to a mistake.

a fundamental flaw

Points to a problem that affects the core aspects of something.

a grave shortcoming

Focuses on a significant lack or inadequacy.

a severe malfunction

Specifically refers to a breakdown or failure in functionality.

a substantial failing

Indicates a considerable failure to meet expectations or requirements.

a significant lapse

Points to an important oversight or error in judgment.

a notable imperfection

Highlights a distinct and observable flaw.

a considerable weakness

Emphasizes a significant vulnerability or area of deficiency.

a glaring inadequacy

Suggests a readily apparent and significant lack.

FAQs

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

You can use "a serious fault" to describe a significant defect or error, for example: "The investigation revealed "a serious fault" in the aircraft's engine".

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

You can use alternatives like "a major defect", "a critical error", or "a grave shortcoming" depending on the context.

What makes "a serious fault" different from "a minor fault"?

"A serious fault" implies significant consequences or potential danger, while "a minor fault" suggests a less critical issue that may not require immediate attention.

In what situations is it appropriate to use the phrase "a serious fault"?

It is appropriate to use "a serious fault" in formal reports, technical documentation, or any situation where you need to emphasize the severity of an error or defect. It's also used in news reports to highlight significant problems.