it becomes jammed

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "it becomes jammed" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it to describe a situation where something, such as a machine or device, is unable to function properly due to a blockage or obstruction. Example: "When the printer runs out of paper, it becomes jammed and cannot print any further."

✓ Grammatically correct

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

60 human-written examples

My schedule for next week is application-free because I have school exams, but the following week it becomes jam-packed with studying, working, and finishing applications.

Huffington Post

If the box becomes jammed, transit personnel cannot accept fares from magnetic-pass holders (smart cards), so it is imperative that transit authorities know in advance the condition of the box.

MIT Technology Review

Rapidly converging ground may exert such a high pressure on the shield that the thrust force is no longer sufficient to overcome shield skin friction and the TBM becomes jammed.

Tunnelling and Underground Space Technology

The Black Rock Canal, from Buffalo Harbor to a point a few miles down the Niagara River, extends the navigation period locally through a greater part of the winter, when the river itself becomes jammed with Lake Erie ice.

Encyclopedia Britannica

As the treads approach the landing, they pass through a comb device; a deflection switch is actuated to cut off power if an object becomes jammed between the tread and the comb.

Encyclopedia Britannica

However, as the highway expands dramatically and becomes jammed with a seemingly endless number of cars, he starts talking about business and the two houses he owns and rents out in Los Angeles.

Huffington Post

The button of the TightRope RT may remain in the femoral tunnel rather than flipping outside of the tunnel to rest on the lateral femoral cortex, or it may become jammed inside the femoral canal.

Arthroscopy Techniques

The driver attempted to drive down a stairway that turned out to be too narrow, crashing the vehicle and causing it to become jammed.

Los Angeles Times

The driver attempted to flee down a stairway that turned out to be too narrow, crashing the vehicle and causing it to become jammed.

Los Angeles Times

Many half-tracks, jeeps and trucks floundered in deep water; those that made it ashore soon became jammed up on the narrowing beach, making easy targets for the German defenders.

Wikipedia

On 15 September, he landed a Vampire jet fighter at Point Cook with one flat tyre and one wheel retracted, after its undercarriage had become jammed.

Wikipedia

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When describing a mechanical issue, use "it becomes jammed" to indicate a physical obstruction is preventing proper function. Be specific about what is becoming jammed and why.

Common error

Avoid using "it becomes jammed" in contexts where other phrases like "it malfunctions" or "it breaks down" are more appropriate. "Jammed" implies a physical obstruction, not a general failure.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "it becomes jammed" functions as a descriptive statement, indicating a state change where something transitions into a condition of being stuck or obstructed. Ludwig confirms its usability in written English.

Expression frequency: Missing

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Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "it becomes jammed" describes a state where something is physically blocked or obstructed, preventing its proper function. While grammatically correct, as confirmed by Ludwig, it’s crucial to use it in contexts where a physical obstruction is the cause, distinguishing it from general malfunctions. Alternatives like "it gets stuck" or "it is blocked" can offer simpler or more context-specific options. Though examples are currently absent, consider its usage in both formal and informal scenarios to convey clarity.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

it gets stuck

Replaces "becomes jammed" with a simpler, more direct verb.

it is blocked

Similar to "obstructed" but more commonly used.

it is obstructed

Uses a passive voice construction emphasizing the blockage.

it is clogged

Implies a blockage due to accumulated material.

it seizes up

Suggests a sudden stop due to mechanical failure.

it locks up

Similar to "seizes up", often used for braking systems.

it is immobilized

Emphasizes the inability to move or function.

it is gridlocked

Specifically refers to traffic congestion.

it comes to a standstill

Indicates a complete halt in movement or progress.

it is rendered inoperable

A formal way of saying something can no longer function.

FAQs

How can I use "it becomes jammed" in a sentence?

Use "it becomes jammed" to describe a situation where something is physically blocked and unable to move or function correctly. For example, "The printer "becomes jammed" if you try to print too many pages at once."

What can I say instead of "it becomes jammed"?

You can use alternatives like "it gets stuck", "it is blocked", or "it seizes up" depending on the context.

Is "it becomes jammed" formal or informal?

The phrase "it becomes jammed" is generally considered neutral in tone and can be used in both formal and informal contexts. However, more formal alternatives may be preferable in academic or professional writing.

What causes something to "become jammed"?

Things "become jammed" due to physical obstructions or blockages that prevent them from functioning correctly. This could be due to debris, misalignment, or other mechanical issues.