serious fault

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "serious fault" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe a significant error or mistake, often in a formal or technical context. Example: "The engineer identified a serious fault in the design that could compromise the safety of the structure."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Encyclopedias

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

34 human-written examples

In each of these departments it's easy — and often right — to find serious fault with him.

The New York Times - Arts

"This is a serious fault in the inquisitorial system as it operates in Brazil".

The Guardian

But there is a serious fault line running through England's one-day batting.

The Guardian - Sport

The only serious fault of "Month" is that its ending sentimentalizes the bittersweet Turgenev comedy on which it is based.

The New York Times - Arts

Besides his complaint about competitive bias, Mr. Akass found serious fault with the credibility of the story's sourcing.

The New York Times

It is at this point that a serious fault line demarcates future relations between Israel and Iran's potentially democratic regime.

The Guardian - Opinion

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

24 human-written examples

Serious faults with the points "could and should have been identified sooner", he added.

Independent

The only serious faults lay in the work of some vocal soloists, but they were the least of what the evening was about.

The New York Times

"Wrong tactics during a game, or a player selected by mistake can constitute serious faults in a team manager," Mr. Bearzot said 21 years ago.

The New York Times - Sports

Some of the most serious faults uncovered in the research were found in the first winner of the prize - Salford University's centenary building.

The Guardian

There could, after all, be few more serious faults to find in a structure as big as the further education sector than that those reputedly responsible for colleges don't know what their responsibilities are.

The Guardian

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When describing technical issues, use "serious fault" to highlight the severity and potential impact of a malfunction, for example, "The engineers discovered a "serious fault" in the engine's cooling system."

Common error

Avoid using "serious fault" in casual conversation. Opt for simpler terms like "big problem" or "major issue" instead, as "serious fault" can sound overly formal or technical.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "serious fault" functions as a noun phrase where the adjective "serious" modifies the noun "fault". It describes the severity or significance of the fault being referred to. Ludwig AI confirms that the phrase is correct and usable in written English.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

42%

Science

33%

Encyclopedias

6%

Less common in

Wiki

6%

Formal & Business

3%

Social Media

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "serious fault" is a grammatically correct and frequently used expression to describe significant errors or malfunctions. While applicable across various contexts, it is most commonly found in news reports, scientific documents, and technical manuals. As Ludwig AI confirms, the phrase is widely recognized and accepted in standard English. When writing, consider using "serious fault" when the severity of an issue needs to be emphasized, and remember that there are other terms that can be used in different contexts such as "major defect" or "grave error". While the phrase is usable, in a casual conversation a simpler phrase will sound more appropriate.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

major defect

Emphasizes the significance of the flaw.

critical flaw

Highlights the potential for severe consequences due to the fault.

grave error

Stresses the severe nature and impact of the mistake.

significant malfunction

Focuses on operational impairment caused by the fault.

severe defect

Underscores the intensity and seriousness of the imperfection.

substantial problem

Indicates a considerable issue requiring attention.

notable imperfection

Highlights the fault as being easily observed or important.

considerable deficiency

Emphasizes the lack or inadequacy that constitutes the fault.

important issue

Focuses on the relevance and consequence of the defect.

major shortcoming

Indicates a significant limitation or weakness.

FAQs

What does "serious fault" mean?

A "serious fault" indicates a significant defect, error, or malfunction that can have substantial negative consequences. It suggests the problem is more than a minor issue and requires immediate attention.

What can I say instead of "serious fault"?

You can use alternatives like "major defect", "critical flaw", or "grave error" depending on the specific context.

Is it appropriate to use "serious fault" in casual conversation?

While grammatically correct, "serious fault" is more suitable for formal or technical contexts. In casual settings, using phrases like "big problem" or "major issue" is often more appropriate.

What are some common contexts where "serious fault" is used?

The phrase "serious fault" is often used in technical fields, news reports about accidents or malfunctions, and formal reports detailing problems with systems or processes.