something fundamentally wrong

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "something fundamentally wrong" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to indicate that there is a deep-seated issue or problem with a situation, idea, or system. Example: "After reviewing the report, it became clear that there was something fundamentally wrong with the data collection process."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

59 human-written examples

Isn't something fundamentally wrong here?

The New York Times

There's something fundamentally wrong with that".

The New Yorker

Clearly there is something fundamentally wrong here.

The New York Times

"Every store has something fundamentally wrong with it".

The New York Times

There is something fundamentally wrong with EU policy.

The Guardian - Opinion

But there's something fundamentally wrong with the food on trains.

The Guardian - Lifestyle

There's something fundamentally wrong with that and we've got to fix it".

The New York Times

I also knew that there was something fundamentally wrong with my business: me.

The New York Times

When a team concede 33 points in an international without reply there is something fundamentally wrong.

The Guardian - Sport

"There is something fundamentally wrong with the way money is spent and distributed in football.

The Guardian - Sport

"Would I, if I had believed that there was something fundamentally wrong with government policy?

The Guardian

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "something fundamentally wrong", ensure the context clearly identifies what the 'something' refers to. Specificity enhances clarity and impact.

Common error

Avoid using "something fundamentally wrong" as a generic criticism without identifying the specific issue. Always clarify what you believe is fundamentally flawed to avoid ambiguity and strengthen your argument.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "something fundamentally wrong" functions as a descriptor, indicating a deep or inherent problem within a given situation, system, or idea. It often serves to introduce a critical assessment or judgment about a subject, as confirmed by Ludwig.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

75%

Science

15%

Formal & Business

5%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

1%

Wiki

1%

Reference

3%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "something fundamentally wrong" is a commonly used descriptor indicating a deep or inherent problem. Ludwig AI confirms its grammatical correctness and widespread usage, predominantly in news and media, but also in science and formal contexts. It serves to express concern or criticism, highlighting the severity of an underlying issue. When using this phrase, it's crucial to specify what the 'something' refers to, avoiding vague generalities. Alternatives include "a basic flaw" or "an inherent problem", each carrying slightly different nuances. This analysis provides a deeper understanding of the phrase's proper usage, common errors, and its role in effective communication.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

an inherent problem

Emphasizes that the problem is a natural part of something.

a deep-seated problem

Indicates a problem that is firmly established and difficult to change.

an underlying issue

Indicates a problem that may not be immediately obvious but is important.

a basic flaw

Focuses on a flaw at the foundation of something.

a core defect

Highlights a defect central to the subject.

a structural issue

Points to a problem in the structure or organization.

a root cause

Highlights the basic cause of a problem.

a basic error

Suggests a mistake at the foundation of something.

a critical defect

Highlights a defect that is vitally important.

a fatal flaw

Implies that a flaw will lead to failure.

FAQs

How can I use "something fundamentally wrong" in a sentence?

You can use "something fundamentally wrong" to express that there's a basic or inherent problem with something. For example, "There is something fundamentally wrong with the system if it cannot provide equal opportunities for everyone."

What phrases are similar to "something fundamentally wrong"?

Similar phrases include "an inherent problem", "a basic flaw", or "a deep-seated problem". The choice depends on the specific nuance you want to convey.

Is it correct to say "something essentially wrong" instead of "something fundamentally wrong"?

While "something essentially wrong" carries a similar meaning, "something fundamentally wrong" is the more common and idiomatic expression. "Fundamentally" implies a deeper, more foundational issue.

What does "something fundamentally wrong" imply?

It implies that the problem is not superficial but is deeply rooted within the structure, system, or nature of something. It suggests the problem is significant and requires a major change rather than a simple fix.