fail to operate

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "fail to operate" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when describing a situation where something does not function as intended or expected. Example: "The machinery may fail to operate if not properly maintained."

✓ Grammatically correct

Science

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

24 human-written examples

These type of projects may negatively impact operations while personnel are achieving competency or fail to operate as originally intended.

Journal of Big Data

The normal processes of recovery fail to operate, and the economy gets stuck in a slump.

The New Yorker

Backup generators often fail to operate during blackouts for lack of expensive diesel fuel.

The New York Times

Stiglitz showed that if the problem of "asymmetric information" gets too severe, markets may fail to operate at all.

The New Yorker

If a control rod ejection accident happened at low power, the EPR's automatic shutdown mechanism could fail to operate, it indicated.

The New York Times

One clue to Dench's appeal is her husky voice, which has a natural catch in it; certain notes fail to operate.

The New Yorker

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

34 human-written examples

But the system failed to operate properly from the start.

The New York Times

Alberta officials said Tuesday that Syncrude had failed to operate noisemakers to frighten away birds.

The New York Times

And in Fulton County, Ga., which includes Atlanta, some machines failed to operate and there were too few workers.

The New York Times

Reichelt died after he jumped off the Eiffel Tower wearing his invention, which failed to operate as expected.

Independent

Our shortcomings have been broadly shared including how we have failed to operate well internally and externally.

The Guardian

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "fail to operate", ensure the context clearly indicates what is expected to be operating and why its failure is significant.

Common error

Avoid using "fail to operate" when simpler phrases like "doesn't work" or "stopped working" are more appropriate for informal or general contexts. The phrase is more fitting for technical or formal writing.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "fail to operate" functions as a verb phrase, indicating the inability or cessation of a system, device, or process to perform its intended function. Ludwig's examples show it used in contexts ranging from machinery to abstract systems.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

Science

44%

News & Media

44%

Formal & Business

4%

Less common in

Wiki

4%

Encyclopedias

0%

Social Media

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "fail to operate" is a grammatically sound and frequently used expression, particularly in scientific and news contexts, to describe the malfunction or inability of something to function as intended. Ludwig AI confirms the correctness and usability of the phrase. Alternatives such as "cease to function" or "malfunction" can be used depending on the desired level of formality. When using "fail to operate", clarity is key; ensure the context clearly defines what should be operating and the significance of its failure. While versatile, avoid overuse in overly simplistic contexts where simpler phrases might be more appropriate.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

cease to function

This alternative describes a complete stop in functionality, emphasizing the cessation of operation.

malfunction

This single-word alternative suggests faulty operation or a breakdown in proper functioning.

break down

This implies a sudden and often complete failure of operation.

stop working

A simple and direct way to express that something is no longer operational.

become inoperative

This more formal option indicates that something is no longer capable of operating.

be out of order

Commonly used for equipment or systems that are temporarily not functioning.

not function as intended

This highlights the discrepancy between the expected and actual performance.

prove unworkable

Indicates that a plan, system, or method cannot be successfully implemented or operated.

go wrong

A general term for when something deviates from the desired or expected outcome.

not come into operation

Suggests that something never started working or was never activated.

FAQs

What does "fail to operate" mean?

The phrase "fail to operate" means that something is not functioning as intended or is unable to perform its designated task. It suggests a breakdown or inability to work properly.

What can I say instead of "fail to operate"?

You can use alternatives like "cease to function", "malfunction", or "stop working" depending on the context.

When is it appropriate to use the phrase "fail to operate"?

The phrase "fail to operate" is appropriate in technical, formal, or scientific contexts where precise language is important. It is often used to describe the malfunction of machinery, systems, or processes.

Is "fails to operate" the same as "failed to operate"?

No, "fails to operate" indicates a current or recurring issue, while "failed to operate" indicates a past event. For instance, "The backup generator fails to operate during power outages" versus "The backup generator failed to operate during the last power outage".