is prone to fail

USAGE SUMMARY

'is prone to fail' is a correct and usable phrase in written English.
You can use it to express that something is likely or likely to fail due to certain conditions. For example, "Without proper maintenance, old equipment is prone to fail."

✓ Grammatically correct

Science

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

3 human-written examples

It is used to measure whether an individual is prone to fail at some time [14].

EURASIP Journal on Wireless Communications and Networking

The current system where high-risk patients often move between different clinics and subspecialties is prone to fail unless providers take an active role in communicating with each other.

CKJ: Clinical Kidney Journal

As long as success in Copenhagen is interpreted by critical negotiators and interest groups as resistance to change a consensus based negotiation process is prone to fail to achieve the required momentum for adequate ambition and timing of mitigation actions.

Carbon Balance and Management

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

57 human-written examples

Also, the analyser measurements are prone to fail due to hardware issues.

IFAC-PapersOnLine

They have little interest in the subject and they are prone to fail.

Educación Química

It is a well-known fact that wind turbine blades are prone to fail in their adhesive joints.

Composite Structures

Following vascular bypass interventions, autologous saphenous vein grafts are prone to fail due to intimal hyperplasia development.

International Journal of Pharmaceutics

While many e-health initiatives and projects were launched in the last couple of years, a large number of them failed or are prone to fail.

Health Policy and Technology

Neither Mr. Stahl nor his surgeon knew it, but at that time, the maker of the replacement hip, Sulzer Orthopedics Inc. of Austin, Tex., was investigating reports that its implants were prone to fail.

The New York Times - Science

It doesn't matter which party is in power, the politics of education is still dominated by a deeply held subconscious belief that most professionals are prone to fail unless the heavy (and we now know incompetent) hand of government steps in to improve them.

The Guardian

Initial research has already turned up major findings involving the surprising ease with which heat leaks through damaged insulation into the steel, and the ways in which isolated parts of the trade center's structure may have been prone to fail in a major fire -- even without structural damage from the planes.

The New York Times - Science

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "is prone to fail", consider the specific context to ensure it accurately conveys the nature of the potential failure. For instance, use it for systems, plans, or devices that have inherent weaknesses or are likely to break down under certain conditions.

Common error

Avoid using "is prone to fail" for situations where failure is merely a possibility rather than a high probability. Overusing it can create unnecessary alarm or undermine confidence in otherwise reliable processes or systems.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "is prone to fail" functions as a predicate adjective describing the subject's tendency or likelihood to experience failure. It suggests an inherent vulnerability or predisposition towards not succeeding. As Ludwig AI confirms, the phrase is grammatically sound and readily used.

Expression frequency: Uncommon

Frequent in

Science

40%

News & Media

40%

Wiki

20%

Less common in

Formal & Business

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "is prone to fail" is a grammatically sound and readily understandable expression used to describe something that has a high likelihood of failing due to inherent weaknesses or specific conditions. Ludwig AI analysis and the provided examples show its presence in science, news media, and general contexts. It's advisable to consider the specific nuance you intend to convey and explore semantically related phrases to enhance clarity and impact. Remember to avoid overgeneralization. Top sources like The New York Times, The Guardian, and BBC show the phrase is used professionally and academically.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

is likely to break down

Focuses on the likelihood of ceasing to function properly, emphasizing a mechanical or operational failure.

is susceptible to failure

Highlights vulnerability and a higher chance of not succeeding, suggesting an inherent weakness.

is at risk of failing

Emphasizes the presence of danger and potential negative consequences if failure occurs.

tends to malfunction

Suggests a habitual tendency to not function correctly, implying recurring issues.

is apt to break

Indicates a natural inclination or predisposition towards breaking, highlighting fragility.

is liable to collapse

Specifically indicates a higher probability of structural failure or sudden breakdown.

is subject to breakdown

Suggests that external factors or conditions make it more likely to fail or break down.

is vulnerable to error

Focuses on the possibility of mistakes or inaccuracies, particularly in systems or processes.

carries a high failure rate

Quantifies the probability of failure, suggesting statistical evidence or a known pattern.

has a tendency to give way

Emphasizes a predisposition towards yielding or collapsing under pressure or stress.

FAQs

How can I rephrase "is prone to fail" to sound more formal?

For a more formal tone, consider using phrases like "is susceptible to failure", "is at risk of failing", or "exhibits a tendency toward malfunction". These alternatives lend a more professional and precise tone, suitable for academic or business contexts.

What's the difference between "is prone to fail" and "is likely to fail"?

While both phrases indicate a high probability of failure, "is prone to fail" suggests an inherent weakness or predisposition. "Is likely to fail", on the other hand, simply indicates a high probability without necessarily implying an inherent flaw. You can use alternatives like "is likely to break down" or "is apt to break".

In what situations is it appropriate to use "is prone to fail"?

Use "is prone to fail" when describing systems, plans, or devices that have inherent weaknesses or are known to be unreliable under certain conditions. It's suitable for highlighting potential problems due to design flaws, poor maintenance, or environmental factors. You can also reword it using "is vulnerable to error".

What are some common synonyms for "is prone to fail" that I can use to add variety to my writing?

Alternatives include "is at risk of failing", "is liable to collapse", or "carries a high failure rate". The choice depends on the specific nuance you want to convey about the potential for failure.