malfunctioning state

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "malfunctioning state" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe a condition or situation where something is not functioning properly or is in a state of failure. Example: "The device entered a malfunctioning state, causing it to shut down unexpectedly."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

5 human-written examples

Many Romanians felt clear about what to blame – widespread corruption and a malfunctioning state apparatus – and took to the streets.

The Guardian - Opinion

In this study, we investigated how the phosphorylation of serine 273 in PPAR γ shifts the protein population towards a malfunctioning state and consequently perturbs cellular molecular networks, eventually leading to the development of insulin resistance.

Cell Death and Disease

"There is a certain helplessness that comes from dealing with the malfunctioning state at the street level," Mr. Varshney said.

The New York Times

Georgia's problem was not lack of pluralism but a malfunctioning state, which Mr Saakashvili is still the best man to fix.

The Economist

They are a symptom of India's corrupt and malfunctioning state: thriving, in poor and crowded parts of Uttar Pradesh (UP), Madhya Pradesh and Bihar, where the district administration is weakest.

The Economist

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

55 human-written examples

But the new system malfunctioned, forcing state workers to approve payments manually.

Los Angeles Times

Proteins exist as populations of states of different structures and energies, including native structural states, malfunctioning and highly unfolded species.

Cell Death and Disease

Unemployment is at 24%, there is deep poverty in urban areas, welfare provision has been ruined, and the state is malfunctioning.

The Guardian - Opinion

As a result, organizations also malfunction and the state becomes ineffective.

Huffington Post

Gene regulatory networks (GRN) have the potential to provide us with the cellular context of all genes of interest, as well as with a means to identify specific subnetworks that are malfunctioning in a given disease state (Cam et al., 2004; Jesmin et al., 2010).

Bioinformatics

(AP) NORTH SALEM: BARN FIRE CALLED AN ACCIDENT A fire in a barn at a horse farm in northern Westchester Monday morning that killed 31 horses was caused by an electrical malfunction, a state investigator said yesterday.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "malfunctioning state", ensure that the context clearly specifies what aspects of the state are not functioning correctly. Provide specific examples or details to support your claim.

Common error

Avoid using "malfunctioning state" as a vague criticism without providing concrete examples of the state's failures. Instead, specify which systems or institutions are failing and how they are malfunctioning.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "malfunctioning state" functions as a noun phrase, where "malfunctioning" acts as an adjective modifying the noun "state". It describes a state that is not operating correctly or as intended. Ludwig examples illustrate its use in discussing political and economic issues.

Expression frequency: Rare

Frequent in

News & Media

40%

Science

30%

Formal & Business

10%

Less common in

Wiki

7%

Encyclopedias

7%

Reference

6%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "malfunctioning state" effectively describes a nation or region plagued by systemic issues that prevent it from functioning correctly. Ludwig's analysis reveals that it's grammatically sound and primarily utilized in news, media, and scientific contexts. While the term carries a negative connotation, alternatives like "failing state" or "dysfunctional state" offer nuanced options for expressing similar meanings. Ludwig AI confirms its usability in written English, stressing the importance of specific examples when employing the term to avoid overgeneralization and enhance clarity.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

failing state

Focuses on the state's inability to fulfill its duties or provide basic services.

dysfunctional state

Highlights the impaired nature of the state's operations.

ineffective state

Emphasizes the state's lack of positive outcomes or impact.

crippled state

Implies a severe impairment, often due to internal or external factors.

broken state

Suggests a state that is fundamentally damaged and unable to function as intended.

state in disarray

Indicates a condition of chaos and lack of order within the state.

ailing state

Suggests a state that is in decline or suffering from significant problems.

state in crisis

Highlights a critical situation threatening the stability or functionality of the state.

floundering state

Emphasizes the state's struggle to maintain its operations or direction.

troubled state

Focuses on the existence of significant difficulties or challenges facing the state.

FAQs

How can I use "malfunctioning state" in a sentence?

You can use "malfunctioning state" to describe a country or region where the government or its systems are not working properly. For example: "Widespread corruption contributed to a "malfunctioning state"."

What are some synonyms for "malfunctioning state"?

Alternatives include "failing state", "dysfunctional state", or "ineffective state", each emphasizing a slightly different aspect of the state's problems.

Is it appropriate to use "malfunctioning state" in formal writing?

Yes, "malfunctioning state" is appropriate for formal writing, particularly in political science, economics, and international relations. However, ensure your analysis is well-supported by evidence.

What are the characteristics of a "malfunctioning state"?

A "malfunctioning state" is often characterized by corruption, weak institutions, economic instability, and an inability to provide basic services to its citizens. Consider other alternatives like "state in disarray", "state in crisis", or "crippled state".