prone to failure

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "prone to failure" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use this phrase to describe something that has a tendency to fail, or something that is at a higher risk of failing than is normal or expected: "This type of machine is known to be prone to failure, so regular maintenance is essential."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Academia

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

Naively using this data, however, is prone to failure.

Cornell University

Voter insurgency is hard work, and prone to failure.

The New York Times

Bigger means more complex, means more prone to failure.

The Guardian - Books

Air-conditioning was obsolete and prone to failure.

The New York Times - Magazine

A priori, these ventures are more prone to failure.

The New York Times

Indeed it's far more complicated and prone to failure".

Independent

CFRP structural elements are prone to failure initiating from defects.

Composite Structures

Compliance-based incentives are prone to failure where the standards for compliance are ambiguous or conflicting.

Massachusetts Institute of Technology

But revolutionary, disruptive innovation is often expensive, difficult, and prone to failure.

Massachusetts Institute of Technology

why track peoples limbs with sheer visual processing... that's arrogance and ultimately, prone to failure.

Massachusetts Institute of Technology

But they are also expensive, complicated and prone to failure – and that's in best case scenarios.

The Guardian

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When describing systems or processes, use "prone to failure" to highlight inherent weaknesses or potential points of breakdown, emphasizing the need for careful monitoring or preventative measures.

Common error

Avoid using "prone to failure" in situations where the risk of failure is already obvious or implied. Overusing the phrase can diminish its impact and sound overly dramatic. Instead, consider more nuanced descriptions of the specific risks involved.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "prone to failure" functions as a predicate adjective, modifying a noun to indicate a susceptibility or tendency towards failing. Ludwig AI confirms that the phrase is correct and usable in written English.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

32%

Science

30%

Academia

18%

Less common in

Wiki

8%

Formal & Business

6%

Reference

6%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "prone to failure" is a commonly used and grammatically correct phrase used to describe something with a high likelihood of failing. Ludwig AI confirms its accuracy and usability. It's prevalent in news, scientific, and academic contexts, serving to highlight potential risks or weaknesses. While versatile, avoid overuse in overly dramatic situations. Consider alternatives like "at risk of failing" or "susceptible to breakdown" for nuanced expressions. By using this phrase judiciously, you can effectively communicate potential issues and inform decisions about risk management and mitigation.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

susceptible to breakdown

Focuses on the vulnerability to ceasing to function correctly.

at risk of failing

Emphasizes the possibility of not achieving the desired outcome.

liable to malfunction

Highlights the probability of experiencing operational issues.

vulnerable to collapse

Implies a weakness that could lead to a sudden breakdown or failure.

inclined to falter

Suggests a natural tendency to stumble or weaken.

tending toward deficiency

Points to a drift towards lacking essential qualities or elements.

likely to give way

Indicates a high probability of breaking or collapsing under pressure.

predisposed to nonperformance

Focuses on an inherent characteristic that makes failure more probable.

threatened by breakdown

Emphasizes that the breakdown is a direct threat to its integrity or functionality.

approaching malfunction

Highlights that something is near the point of failing or malfunctioning.

FAQs

How can I use "prone to failure" in a sentence?

You can use "prone to failure" to describe systems, plans, or components that have a higher-than-average likelihood of failing. For example, "This model is "prone to failure" if not properly maintained."

What are some alternatives to "prone to failure"?

Alternatives to "prone to failure" include "at risk of failing", "susceptible to breakdown", and "liable to malfunction", depending on the specific context.

Is it grammatically correct to say "prone to fail" instead of "prone to failure"?

While "prone to fail" is understandable, "prone to failure" is the more standard and grammatically correct phrasing. "Failure" functions as a noun in this context, making it the preferred choice.

What makes something "prone to failure"?

Something may be "prone to failure" due to design flaws, poor materials, inadequate maintenance, or external factors that increase its susceptibility to breaking down or not functioning as intended.