intrinsically flawed

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "intrinsically flawed" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe something that has fundamental or inherent defects or weaknesses. Example: "The theory was deemed intrinsically flawed, leading to its rejection by the scientific community."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Encyclopedias

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

26 human-written examples

Thus, protein patents are intrinsically flawed.

The New York Times

I realized she was weak and intrinsically flawed.

The New York Times - Style

"Some people took that to mean that our analysis was intrinsically flawed".

The New Yorker

And here, I think that the Christian conservative response is intrinsically flawed.

The Guardian - Opinion

If children aren't learning, it's not because their teachers don't care, but it's because of intrinsically flawed educational programs".

The New York Times

The panel's recommendations are based largely on studies that are intrinsically flawed and whose data are incomplete at best.

The New York Times

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

34 human-written examples

The argument is that the mode of socialist federalism, which while it was intrinsically a "sham" in terms of power distribution given that real power resided in communist parties, was flawed because of its "ethnic" structure leading to a mismanagement of nationalism.

The Washington Post

Albeit flawed.

Independent

Flawed concept.

Forbes

However, all are flawed.

Journal of Orthopaedics and Traumatology

This claim is flawed.

eLife

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "intrinsically flawed", ensure the context clearly defines what aspect is inherently defective. Provide specific details to support your claim and avoid vague generalizations.

Common error

Avoid using "intrinsically flawed" when the issue is due to external factors or poor implementation rather than an inherent design problem. If the problem is not part of the fundamental nature, a different phrase may be more accurate.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "intrinsically flawed" functions as a descriptive adjective phrase, typically modifying a noun to indicate that the noun has fundamental or inherent weaknesses. Ludwig shows examples where it modifies terms like "educational programs", "studies", and "analysis".

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

50%

Science

29%

Encyclopedias

8%

Less common in

Wiki

4%

Academia

4%

Formal & Business

4%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "intrinsically flawed" is a descriptive adjective phrase used to denote fundamental or inherent weaknesses in something. According to Ludwig, its usage is grammatically correct and commonly found in contexts like News & Media and Science. The phrase serves to criticize or negatively evaluate a subject by emphasizing its inherent defects. While versatile, ensure the context supports the claim of inherent deficiency rather than external issues. Ludwig AI confirms the correctness of the phrase. Consider alternatives like "inherently defective" or "fundamentally unsound" for nuanced expression.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

inherently defective

Emphasizes the inborn characteristic of being faulty.

fundamentally unsound

Highlights the lack of a solid foundation or basis.

basically deficient

Focuses on the essential inadequacy or incompleteness.

essentially imperfect

Underlines the core imperfection or faultiness.

inherently compromised

Suggests an innate vulnerability or weakness.

constitutionally weak

Implies weakness in the fundamental structure or makeup.

structurally deficient

Points to a problem in the design or arrangement.

fatally undermined

Indicates a flaw that leads to inevitable failure.

irreparably damaged

Stresses the impossibility of fixing the inherent issue.

hopelessly inadequate

Highlights a severe lack of suitability or capability.

FAQs

How can I use "intrinsically flawed" in a sentence?

You can use "intrinsically flawed" to describe a system, idea, or design that has fundamental, unchangeable weaknesses. For example, "The study was deemed "intrinsically flawed" due to its biased methodology".

What are some alternatives to "intrinsically flawed"?

Alternatives include "inherently defective", "fundamentally unsound", or "essentially imperfect". The best choice depends on the specific nuance you want to convey.

Is it redundant to say "very intrinsically flawed"?

Yes, adding an intensifier like "very" is generally redundant because "intrinsically" already implies an inherent and essential quality. It's best to avoid phrases like "very intrinsically flawed".

What's the difference between "intrinsically flawed" and "externally flawed"?

"Intrinsically flawed" describes a fault originating from within the design or nature of something, while "externally flawed" suggests the fault arises from external factors or implementation. A system is "intrinsically flawed" because of its very design; it is "externally flawed" because of how it's used or built.