operational failure

USAGE SUMMARY

"operational failure" is a correct and usable phrase in written English.
It is typically used to describe a failure or breakdown in the functioning or operation of a system or process. It can be used in a variety of contexts, such as in business, technology, or even in everyday situations. Example: The delay in production was caused by an operational failure in the assembly line machinery.

✓ Grammatically correct

Science

News & Media

Formal & Business

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

35 human-written examples

However, the functional failure induced by uncertainty in the system thermal hydraulic (T H) performance becomes one of the main contributors to system operational failure since the system operates based on natural circulation, which should be considered in the system reliability evaluation.

Annals of Nuclear Energy

It was not operational failure.

Independent

We are increasing the risk of operational failure.

The Guardian

It underlined the "clear operational failure" that led to the disaster and the attempts by South Yorkshire police (SYP) and the ambulance service to cover up their shortcomings.

The Guardian - Sport

A Texas Department of Transportation assessment found that two were already at "operational failure," with average peak wait times of more than an hour for commercial traffic and two hours for passenger traffic.

The New York Times

Keefe also worries about the self-defeating effects of keeping so much from the public: secrecy might be essential to the success of spy missions, but it can also conceal privacy violations, abuses of power, and, perhaps worst of all, operational failure.

The New Yorker

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

25 human-written examples

Apparently, these activities have resulted in the direct discharge of organic and inorganic substances including crude oil and refined products through normal operation (as effluents), operational failures, and sabotage to facilities into the adjoining water bodies.

Applied Water Science

The September 11th commission showed that many of the problems were operational failures by individuals.

The Economist

But the report will not merely blame individual officers for operational failures.

The Economist

A housing authority official said five operational failures were reported in the last six months in the elevator where Jacob fell.

The New York Times

The operational failures in Libya grow directly out of Europe's chronic military underinvestment and out-of-date strategic priorities.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When discussing "operational failure", clearly specify the system or process that experienced the failure. This adds clarity and prevents ambiguity.

Common error

Avoid using "operational failure" without specifying the context. For example, instead of saying "The project suffered an operational failure", specify which aspect failed, such as "The project suffered an operational failure in its supply chain logistics".

Linguistic Context

The phrase "operational failure" functions as a noun phrase, typically serving as the subject or object of a sentence. It describes a state where an operation or process has failed to function as intended. Ludwig provides examples showing its use in various contexts.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

Science

43%

News & Media

33%

Formal & Business

8%

Less common in

Wiki

8%

Encyclopedias

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "operational failure" is a grammatically sound and frequently used noun phrase that describes a breakdown in the function of a system or process. As Ludwig AI confirms, it's suitable for various contexts, including science, news, and formal business settings. It's important to specify the context of the failure to avoid overgeneralization. Related terms include "system malfunction" and "functional breakdown". The phrase appears frequently in authoritative sources like The New York Times and The Guardian, further attesting to its widespread use and acceptance.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

system malfunction

Focuses specifically on a system's incorrect or impaired functioning.

functional breakdown

Emphasizes the cessation of proper function.

process disruption

Highlights the interruption of a standard or expected procedure.

performance shortfall

Indicates a failure to meet expected levels of output or effectiveness.

service interruption

Specifically refers to a break in the delivery of a service.

technical glitch

Suggests a minor and often temporary malfunction.

execution error

Highlights mistakes or faults in carrying out a plan or procedure.

implementation flaw

Focuses on defects in the way something was put into practice.

logistical snag

Refers to an unexpected obstacle in the arrangement of resources or activities.

organizational collapse

Points to the complete failure of an organization's structure or function.

FAQs

How can I use "operational failure" in a sentence?

You can use "operational failure" to describe a breakdown in a process or system. For example: "The power plant experienced an operational failure due to a faulty generator".

What are some alternatives to "operational failure"?

Depending on the context, you could use alternatives such as "system malfunction", "functional breakdown", or "process disruption".

What's the difference between "operational failure" and "technical malfunction"?

"Operational failure" is broader, referring to any breakdown in operations. "Technical malfunction" refers specifically to problems with equipment or technology.

Is it appropriate to use "operational failure" in formal writing?

Yes, "operational failure" is appropriate for formal writing, especially in technical, business, or academic contexts. However, always consider the audience and context to choose the most precise and clear term.