fail-safe

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "fail-safe" is correct and usable in written English.
It is typically used to describe a system or mechanism designed to prevent failure or minimize the consequences of failure in critical situations. Example: "The new software update includes a fail-safe feature that automatically backs up data in case of a system crash."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

57 human-written examples

Some labels are fail-safe.

The New York Times

Nor is it fail-safe.

The New York Times - Science

But is it fail-safe?

The New York Times

Nor would it be fail-safe.

The Economist

It is hardly a fail-safe measure.

The New York Times

It's not a fail-safe system though.

The New York Times - Science

"No, because I had a fail-safe.

The Guardian - Film

I have two fail-safe suggestions.

The Guardian - Lifestyle

There are no fail-safe choices here".

The Guardian

But visors are not fail-safe.

The New York Times - Sports

The system is as fail-safe as fail-safe can be.

The New Yorker

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When describing technical systems, clearly define what constitutes a "failure" and how the "fail-safe" mechanism responds. Specificity enhances clarity and understanding.

Common error

Avoid using "fail-safe" to imply absolute certainty of preventing failure. All systems have limitations, and overstating reliability can lead to misplaced trust and potentially dangerous situations.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "fail-safe" primarily functions as an adjective, modifying nouns to describe systems or mechanisms designed to prevent failure or minimize its consequences. As Ludwig AI highlights, it describes something that compensates automatically in case of failure.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

45%

Science

35%

Formal & Business

10%

Less common in

Wiki

5%

Academia

3%

Encyclopedias

2%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The term "fail-safe" is a commonly used adjective signifying a design or mechanism that prevents failure or minimizes its negative consequences. Ludwig AI confirms its correct usage in English. It frequently appears in news and media, science, and formal business contexts, highlighting its versatility. When writing about "fail-safe" systems, it's crucial to specify the type of failure being addressed and how the system responds. While the term implies reliability, it's essential to avoid overstating the certainty of failure prevention. Related terms include "backup system", "safety mechanism", and "contingency plan", which offer alternative ways to express the concept. This analysis provides a detailed understanding of "fail-safe", aiding in its accurate and effective use.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

backup system

Focuses on having a secondary system in place as a contingency.

safety mechanism

Emphasizes the safety aspect of preventing harm or damage.

contingency plan

Highlights the planning aspect of preparing for potential problems.

redundancy measure

Focuses on having extra components or systems to maintain functionality.

fallback option

Suggests a less preferred but still viable alternative in case of failure.

insurance policy

Implies protection against potential losses or negative outcomes.

preventative measure

Stresses the proactive aspect of avoiding problems before they occur.

error-proof design

Highlights the design aspect of making something resistant to errors.

foolproof method

Indicates a method that is simple and reliable, even for inexperienced users.

circuit breaker

Refers to a device that interrupts an electric circuit to prevent excessive current flow.

FAQs

How to use "fail-safe" in a sentence?

You can use "fail-safe" to describe a system designed to prevent failure or minimize its consequences, such as "The new software update includes a fail-safe feature that automatically backs up data in case of a system crash."

What can I say instead of "fail-safe"?

You can use alternatives like "backup system", "safety mechanism", or "contingency plan" depending on the context.

Which is correct, "fail-safe" or "failsafe"?

"Fail-safe" is the more commonly accepted and grammatically correct form. "Failsafe" is sometimes used, but it is less preferred.

What's the difference between "fail-safe" and "fault-tolerant"?

"Fail-safe" refers to a system that reverts to a safe state in case of failure, while "fault-tolerant" describes a system that continues to operate correctly despite failures. A "fault-tolerant" system aims for uninterrupted operation, whereas a "fail-safe" system prioritizes safety.