fails to function properly

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "fails to function properly" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when describing a device, system, or process that is not operating as intended. Example: "The printer fails to function properly, causing delays in our printing tasks."

✓ Grammatically correct

Science

News & Media

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

4 human-written examples

In the process, the mechanism for restoring our economy to healthy growth -- by reducing inventories and excess capacity -- fails to function properly.

The New York Times

However, in the low-SNR scenario, the algorithm fails to function properly.

EURASIP Journal on Advances in Signal Processing

If a weakened PSV fails to function properly, a catastrophic event might occur if no other protective means are provided.

Reliability Engineering & System Safety

Maybe not the solution you were looking for, but this is probably the best alternative if your computer fails to function properly after so much work.

WikiHow

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

56 human-written examples

"The brakes in my legs failed to function properly, and I managed to stop only after 75 kilometers.

The New York Times - Sports

Instead, Mr. Yach said that a switch that linked its internal network to the Internet had failed to function properly.

The New York Times - Tech

Five days later, when Hurricane Irene struck the East Coast, emergency sirens failed to function properly at three nuclear plants, and at Indian Point a canal overflowed.

The New Yorker

The blowout preventer on BP's doomed Macondo well failed to function properly when a piece of drill pipe prevented the single shear ram from closing completely.

The New York Times

BP, in turn, has pointed out on more than one occasion that Transocean owned the oil rig and the blowout preventer, a device that apparently failed to function properly and that is continuing to be the most significant obstacle to stopping the spill.

The New York Times

With the widespread use of sophisticated targeting sensors, with which aircrews record infrared video of the impact of a missile or bomb, air forces have a greater capacity than ever to know exactly where weapons struck and when they have failed to function properly.

The New York Times

Alternatively, hormone receptors in hybrids may fail to function properly due to the hybrid genetic background which could lead to a lack of response to hCG treatment.

Plosone

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When describing a system or process, be specific about which aspect "fails to function properly" and the consequences of this failure.

Common error

Avoid using the phrase "fails to function properly" without providing context. Instead of saying "the system fails to function properly", specify which part of the system is malfunctioning and why.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "fails to function properly" acts as a verb phrase, typically functioning as the predicate of a sentence. It describes the state of something not operating as intended. Ludwig AI confirms its usability in written English.

Expression frequency: Uncommon

Frequent in

Science

50%

News & Media

40%

Wiki

10%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

0%

Reference

0%

Social Media

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "fails to function properly" is a grammatically sound and usable expression that indicates something is not working as intended. Ludwig AI confirms this. It's commonly found in scientific, news, and general contexts. To enhance clarity, specify which aspect is malfunctioning and the consequences thereof. Alternatives like ""does not work correctly"" or ""is malfunctioning"" can be used depending on the desired level of formality and context. This analysis, combined with the diverse examples from Ludwig, provides a comprehensive understanding of how to effectively use this phrase.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

is not working

Simple and direct way to express a lack of functionality.

is malfunctioning

Synonym that specifies that the item isn't working correctly.

does not work correctly

Rephrasing using simpler vocabulary, focusing on the lack of correct operation.

malfunctions

Single word replacement that indicates a failure to function correctly.

doesn't function as designed

More technical phrasing, indicating a failure to meet design specifications.

is not operating as expected

Highlights the deviation from the anticipated or designed operation.

is out of order

Common phrase indicating temporary or permanent cessation of function.

has ceased to work

Emphasizes the termination of functionality.

is defective

Focuses on an inherent flaw causing the failure.

is broken

Indicates that the item is damaged and cannot perform its task.

FAQs

How can I rephrase "fails to function properly"?

You can use alternatives such as "does not work correctly", "is malfunctioning", or "is out of order" depending on the context.

What does it mean when something "fails to function properly"?

It means that a device, system, or process is not operating as intended or designed. It's experiencing a malfunction or inability to perform its expected task.

Is it appropriate to use "fails to function properly" in formal writing?

Yes, "fails to function properly" is suitable for formal writing, especially when describing technical or mechanical issues. However, consider more precise language if possible, like "malfunctions" or "operates outside specified parameters".

What's the difference between "fails to function properly" and "is not working"?

"Fails to function properly" implies that the item is attempting to work but not achieving the correct result or operating as designed. "Is not working" is a more general statement that it is not operating at all.