it stopped functioning

USAGE SUMMARY

"it stopped functioning" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it when describing something that is no longer working or operating properly. Example: The computer suddenly stopped functioning, so I had to take it to the repair shop.

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

3 human-written examples

But while it worked briefly, residents say it stopped functioning several months ago.

Vice

The following day, the FCC website's comment system received so much traffic, it stopped functioning for more than two hours.

Huffington Post

Rodger Schwecke, a SoCalGas executive, told LA Weekly that the company removed the valve in 1979 when it stopped functioning and didn't replace it.

Huffington Post

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

52 human-written examples

Only days remain to find MH370's black box before it stops functioning.

Independent

I have been to a psychiatrist a couple of times in my life, each time because I stopped functioning.

The New York Times

As a result, doctors said that patients were better off leaving the lead in place except in those instances where it has stopped functioning properly.

The New York Times

There was another back door, but it's stopped functioning just during the time I've been writing this article (which doesn't exactly give me a warm, fuzzy feeling).

Huffington Post

Credit markets seized up and all but stopped functioning, making it impossible for most companies to borrow money on more than an overnight basis.

The New York Times

It seems that many smoke alarms stopped functioning [ 28, 29].

Cost Effectiveness and Resource Allocation

As a postscript, it should be noted that the second ASM onboard Charlie stopped functioning the 5th of November 2014.

Earth, Planets and Space

It can also occur when the ovaries are removed or have stopped functioning.

Clinical interventions in aging

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "it stopped functioning" when you want to clearly and directly state that something is no longer working as intended. Ensure the context provides clarity about what 'it' refers to.

Common error

Avoid using "it stopped functioning" without clearly establishing what "it" refers to. Ambiguity can confuse the reader; always ensure the subject is clearly defined in the context.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "it stopped functioning" serves as a declarative statement, indicating the cessation of an object's or system's ability to perform its intended task. As Ludwig AI confirmed, it's grammatically correct and widely applicable.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

40%

Science

30%

Formal & Business

10%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

5%

Wiki

5%

Reference

10%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "it stopped functioning" is a grammatically sound and versatile phrase used to describe the cessation of operation or activity. As verified by Ludwig AI, this phrase is suitable for various contexts, especially in news, scientific, and general informational writing. While maintaining a neutral tone, it's important to ensure the subject, "it", is clearly defined to avoid ambiguity. Alternatives such as "it ceased to function" or "it broke down" can provide nuanced variations in meaning. Remember to avoid vague pronoun references and ensure the context clarifies the subject.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

it ceased to function

Formal alternative using 'ceased' instead of 'stopped'.

it became inoperative

Formal and technical, indicating it's no longer capable of operating.

it failed to operate

A more technical and formal way of saying it didn't work.

it malfunctioned

Implies an error or defect caused it to stop working.

it shut down

Suggests a deliberate or automatic cessation of function.

it broke down

Informal alternative implying a mechanical failure.

it quit working

Informal, direct way to say it stopped operating.

it went out of service

Often used for equipment or systems, indicating it's no longer running.

it gave out

Suggests that it was exhausted or worn out before stopping.

it conked out

Very informal, often used for engines or electronics.

FAQs

How can I use "it stopped functioning" in a sentence?

Use "it stopped functioning" to describe when something no longer works. For example, "The old well "it stopped functioning" during the drought."

What's a more formal way to say "it stopped functioning"?

A more formal alternative is "it ceased to function", which is often used in technical or professional contexts.

What can I say instead of "it stopped functioning" when referring to machinery?

When referring to machinery, you could say "it broke down", implying a mechanical failure.

Is "it stopped functioning" suitable for formal writing?

While grammatically correct, "it stopped functioning" can be used in formal writing, but consider more precise or technical terms if available to enhance clarity and professionalism.