a terrible system

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "a terrible system" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it to describe a system that is ineffective, poorly designed, or causes problems. Example: "The new software implementation has proven to be a terrible system, leading to numerous errors and delays."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

18 human-written examples

What a terrible system!

The New York Times

It's a terrible system".

The New York Times

It is a terrible system, as Gov. David Paterson again proved this week.

The New York Times

Everyone has forgotten Winston Churchill's words: "Democracy is a terrible system until you consider the alternatives".

The Guardian - Opinion

"I think this is a terrible system for our community," said Nicole Zussman, a mother of two.

The New York Times

Viewing the photographs, Watterson says the use in Bajo Lempa represents "a terrible system of work" and is "a potentially serious threat to public health".

The Guardian

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

37 human-written examples

I would have made a terrible systems analyst, a woeful actuary.

The New Yorker

This terrible system is hobbled by a perverse funding mechanism.

The New York Times

There is a set piece about bone-marrow extraction that moves over you like a terrible weather system.

The New York Times - Books

The bar had a tiny stage and a terrible sound system, but Miller said it hardly mattered.

The New Yorker

-- Matt Cutugno "This is such a terrible pricing system... only people who don't use the subways and buses could think of an idea like this".

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using the phrase "a terrible system", provide specific details about what makes the system terrible to strengthen your argument. For example, instead of just saying "The healthcare system is a terrible system", explain which aspects are problematic, such as long wait times, high costs, or lack of access.

Common error

Avoid using "a terrible system" as a general complaint without offering concrete examples or explanations. Overuse weakens the impact and makes your statement seem unsubstantiated. Provide details to support your claim and make it more persuasive.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "a terrible system" functions as a noun phrase, where "terrible" modifies the noun "system". It expresses a negative evaluation of a particular system, indicating that it is of poor quality or causes problems. Ludwig AI confirms its usability.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

95%

Science

3%

Encyclopedias

2%

Less common in

Formal & Business

0%

Wiki

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "a terrible system" is a common and grammatically correct phrase used to express a negative assessment of a system's quality or functionality. Ludwig AI validates its usability, and it's found predominantly in News & Media contexts. While effective for conveying dissatisfaction, providing specific details about the system's flaws will strengthen your argument. Consider alternatives like "an awful system" or "a flawed system" to add nuance or formality as needed.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

an awful system

Replaces "terrible" with a more general term for something unpleasant or bad.

a dreadful system

Substitutes "terrible" with a word that implies something causing fear or suffering.

a poor system

Uses a simpler term to describe the system's low quality.

a flawed system

Focuses on the imperfections and weaknesses of the system.

an inadequate system

Highlights the system's failure to meet requirements or expectations.

a substandard system

Indicates that the system is below the required or expected level.

a deficient system

Emphasizes the system's lack of essential qualities or components.

a malfunctioning system

Points to the system's failure to operate correctly.

a broken system

Implies the system is damaged or not working at all.

a corrupt system

Indicates the system is dishonest or unethical.

FAQs

What can I say instead of "a terrible system"?

You can use alternatives like "an awful system", "a flawed system", or "an inadequate system" depending on the context.

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

You can use "a terrible system" to describe something that is ineffective, poorly designed, or causes problems. For example: "The new software implementation has proven to be a terrible system, leading to numerous errors and delays."

What makes "a terrible system" different from "a broken system"?

"A terrible system" implies that the system is fundamentally flawed, while "a broken system" suggests it is not functioning correctly. A system can be terrible without being completely broken, and vice versa.

Is it appropriate to use "a terrible system" in formal writing?

While "a terrible system" is understandable in formal writing, consider using stronger or more specific language to convey your criticism. Phrases like "a flawed system" or "an inadequate system" may be more suitable depending on the context.