critical flaws

USAGE SUMMARY

"critical flaws" is a correct phrase in written English.
You can use it when you are referring to mistakes or errors with serious consequences. For example, "The most critical flaw in the software was creating a security vulnerability that hackers could exploit".

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

58 human-written examples

The resulting materials have two critical flaws, says Khademhosseini.

MIT Technology Review

On this score, the Senate bill has several critical flaws.

The New York Times

Tom had no critical flaws, but he hadn't yet demonstrated any outstanding strengths either.

Harvard Business Review

Critical flaws may be induced in the structure requiring repair before the next scheduled inspection.

Progress in Aerospace Sciences

Since 2005, two competitors, Medtronic and Guidant, have faced similar scrutiny about critical flaws in their products.

The New York Times

A number of news outlets, including the BBC, have noted that there are a series of critical flaws.

MIT Technology Review

Krzanich was at the helm when Intel announced critical flaws in its microchips, called Spectre and Meltdown, early this year.

The Washington Post

However, many pilots fail to be taken to scale due to critical flaws in pilot design and planning.

Healthcare

An analytical model which encompasses the critical flaws of the regenerator and furthermore the heat exchangers effectivenesses has been developed.

Energy Conversion and Management

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

2 human-written examples

Sub-critical flaws inherent in welded joints are ideal sites for crack initiation and subsequent propagation leading to fast fracture.

Theoretical and Applied Fracture Mechanics

If current architects take anything from the exhibition a must-see, despite some critical flaws it should be the power of those big, gestural drawings, where visual and verbal argument vividly come together.

The New Yorker

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Quantify the impact of "critical flaws" whenever possible, to emphasize the importance of addressing the shortcomings, providing measurable data to support the claim.

Common error

Avoid using "critical flaws" for minor issues. Overusing the phrase can dilute its impact; reserve it for genuinely significant and potentially damaging imperfections.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "critical flaws" functions primarily as a noun phrase, often serving as the subject or object of a sentence. According to Ludwig, this phrase is deemed grammatically correct and functions as a descriptor. Examples include "critical flaws may be induced" or "the new currency had critical flaws".

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

54%

Science

44%

Formal & Business

2%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

0%

Wiki

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "critical flaws" is a commonly used and grammatically sound expression that points out significant weaknesses or shortcomings. Predominantly found in News & Media and Scientific contexts, the phrase carries a neutral to formal tone. Ludwig AI confirms the phrase's correctness, while numerous examples showcase its broad application in identifying substantial issues across various fields. When employing this phrase, clarity and specificity are key to effectively conveying the severity and impact of the identified flaws.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

major shortcomings

Emphasizes inadequacies that significantly impact performance or quality.

significant defects

Focuses on inherent imperfections that compromise functionality or appearance.

serious weaknesses

Highlights vulnerabilities that could lead to failure or instability.

key vulnerabilities

Identifies specific weaknesses that are most likely to be exploited or cause problems.

fundamental faults

Underscores basic errors that undermine the integrity or structure of something.

major limitations

Points out constraints or restrictions that hinder potential or effectiveness.

grave imperfections

Highlights severe deficiencies that significantly detract from overall quality or value.

substantial liabilities

Focuses on elements that create risk or disadvantage.

serious drawbacks

Emphasizes disadvantages that could outweigh advantages.

fatal weaknesses

Suggests weaknesses that could lead to ultimate failure or collapse.

FAQs

How to use "critical flaws" in a sentence?

You can use "critical flaws" to describe significant problems or weaknesses in a system, design, or argument. For example, "The report identified several "critical flaws" in the security protocol."

What can I say instead of "critical flaws"?

You can use alternatives like "major shortcomings", "significant defects", or "serious weaknesses" depending on the context.

Which is correct, "critical flaws" or "major flaw"?

"Critical flaws" refers to multiple significant issues, while "major flaw" refers to a single, significant issue. The correct choice depends on whether you are describing one or more problems.

What's the difference between "critical flaws" and "minor imperfections"?

"Critical flaws" are significant weaknesses that can cause major problems or failures, while "minor imperfections" are small, inconsequential issues that do not substantially affect overall quality or functionality.