fault in the system

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "fault in the system" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe an error or malfunction within a system, often in technical or organizational contexts. Example: "After thorough investigation, we discovered a fault in the system that caused the data loss."

✓ Grammatically correct

Science

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

20 human-written examples

It is a body that suffers not an 'inborn error of metabolism', some fault in the system that breaks it, but 'metabolic syndrome', a cluster of signs that systemic regulation has gone awry: raised triglycerides, lowered HDL cholesterol, raised blood pressure, adiposity at the center of the body, high levels of glucose in the blood after fasting.

BioSocieties

The crafty Lehman bankers found a fault in the system — the intersection of British law and American accounting standards.

The New York Times

Zac Goldsmith's financial affairs, he says, show nothing more than a "fault in the system... Zac didn't set up this company, and he didn't do anything illegal.

The Guardian - Lifestyle

The first part detects the existence of a fault in the system while the second is the fault identification.

IFAC Proceedings Volumes

The centrifuges at the Natanz plant continued to spin, but no uranium gas was fed into them, a very rare stoppage that suggested there was a fault in the system.

The Guardian

"There are two assumptions I can make which are both very disturbing but which need answering: Was Gurrumul Yunupingu's level of A&E care related to assumptions based on his race or is there a serious fault in the system which allows someone to be largely ignored in A&E while seriously ill?" The Top End Health Service categorically rejected the assertions.

The Guardian

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

40 human-written examples

The closer I looked at what my job entailed, the more I saw glaring faults in the system.

The Guardian - Opinion

Dr Jenny Harries, PHE's deputy medical director, said the body was "very sorry for these faults in the system".

The Guardian

One problem with "Resource Kit" is that it is from Microsoft and tends to ignore faults in the system.

The New York Times - Tech

The NPEs continuously estimate unknown fault parameters (FPs) that are indicators of faults in the system.

Neural Networks

Firstly, we designed the observer to get the information of the actuator faults in the system.

Applied Mathematics and Computation

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "fault in the system", ensure you clearly define the system you are referring to. Specificity enhances clarity and avoids ambiguity.

Common error

Avoid using passive voice when describing a "fault in the system". Instead of saying 'The fault was found in the system', opt for 'We found a fault in the system' for a more direct and impactful statement.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "fault in the system" functions as a noun phrase identifying a problem or defect within a defined structure or process. Ludwig's examples show it used in various contexts, from technical malfunctions to systemic issues in organizations.

Expression frequency: Uncommon

Frequent in

Science

46%

News & Media

42%

Formal & Business

12%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

0%

Wiki

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "fault in the system" signifies a defect or malfunction within a defined structure, used across contexts from technical issues to organizational problems. Ludwig AI confirms its correctness and usability. Its frequency is uncommon, with higher prevalence in scientific and news-related sources. Related phrases include "system malfunction" and "system error", each offering subtle nuances. When using the phrase, it's best practice to clearly define the system in question to avoid ambiguity. While the phrase is grammatically sound, avoiding passive voice can enhance impact. Overall, "fault in the system" is a versatile phrase for identifying and addressing problems across a range of systems.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

system malfunction

Focuses on the operational failure of the system, rather than the underlying cause.

system error

Highlights an error occurring within the system, typically from a technical perspective.

system defect

Emphasizes a flaw present from the system's creation, implying an inherent issue.

system breakdown

Indicates a complete failure or collapse of the system's functionality.

flaw in the design

Specifies that the fault originates from the system's design phase.

weakness in the framework

Highlights a vulnerable point within the system's structure or organization.

system vulnerability

Focuses on the susceptibility of the system to external threats or internal failures.

deficiency in the process

Pinpoints an inadequacy or shortcoming within the system's operational procedures.

issue with the mechanism

Directs attention to a problem affecting the system's operational components.

glitch in the matrix

Refers to an unexpected and often minor malfunction within the system, metaphorical.

FAQs

What does "fault in the system" mean?

A "fault in the system" refers to a defect, error, or malfunction within a particular system, whether it is a mechanical, organizational, or digital structure.

What can I say instead of "fault in the system"?

You can use alternatives like "system malfunction", "system error", or "system defect" depending on the specific context.

How can I identify a "fault in the system"?

Identifying a "fault in the system" typically involves thorough analysis, testing, and monitoring of the system's performance to detect any deviations from expected behavior.

Is there a difference between a "flaw in the system" and a "fault in the system"?

While both phrases indicate a problem, a "flaw in the system"/"flaw in the system" often suggests a design issue, whereas a "fault in the system" can refer to any kind of malfunction or error.