stopped functioning

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "stopped functioning" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe something that has ceased to operate or work as intended. Example: "The old printer finally stopped functioning after years of heavy use."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Academia

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

His kidneys eventually stopped functioning.

The New York Times

As a result, they stopped functioning.

The New York Times

The club stopped functioning in 1895 after Oliver passed away.

Cornell University

The theater's air-conditioning system had long since stopped functioning.

The New York Times

Crucial parts of the financial system have stopped functioning.

The New York Times

But when the rebels arrived, the markets stopped functioning.

The Guardian

"Her heart and lungs stopped functioning," Dr. Tank said.

The New York Times

Professor Oliver died in 1895, while still Chairman and the Mathematical Club stopped functioning.

Cornell University

He said the bilge pumps had stopped functioning shortly before the ferry sank.

The New York Times

Over time, I became exhausted and stopped functioning as a human being.

The Guardian

Two went through puberty normally, but their ovaries stopped functioning after about 14 years.

The New York Times - Health

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When describing complex systems, consider specifying the reason why something "stopped functioning". Providing context adds clarity.

Common error

Avoid using "stopped functioning" as a vague placeholder. Always clarify what specifically is no longer working and, if possible, why. Saying "the machine stopped functioning" is less informative than "the machine stopped functioning due to a power surge".

Linguistic Context

The phrase "stopped functioning" functions as a verb phrase indicating the cessation of an action or process. It describes a state where something no longer performs its intended purpose. Ludwig AI confirms its correctness and usability in English.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

55%

Science

25%

Academia

10%

Less common in

Formal & Business

5%

Encyclopedias

0%

Wiki

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "stopped functioning" is a versatile and commonly used verb phrase that describes the cessation of an action or process. Ludwig AI confirms its grammatical correctness and widespread use. It is particularly frequent in News & Media, Science, and Academic contexts. When using this phrase, it's important to provide context and specify the reason for the cessation to avoid vagueness. Consider using alternatives like "ceased to operate" or "became inoperative" for more formal situations.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

ceased to operate

Formal alternative emphasizing a complete halt in operation.

became inoperative

Highlights the state of being unable to function, often due to a specific fault.

broke down

Informal term, often used for mechanical or electronic failures.

malfunctioned

Implies that something is not working correctly.

quit working

Simple and direct, suitable for everyday conversation.

failed to work

Emphasizes the failure to achieve the intended function.

went out of order

Commonly used for equipment or systems that are temporarily unusable.

shut down

Suggests a deliberate or automatic cessation of activity.

became defunct

Indicates a permanent end to operation or existence.

lost its function

Focuses on the loss of a specific capability or role.

FAQs

What's a more formal way to say "stopped functioning"?

For more formal contexts, consider using alternatives like "ceased to operate" or "became inoperative", which convey a similar meaning with a higher degree of formality.

When is it appropriate to use "stopped functioning"?

The phrase "stopped functioning" is suitable for a wide range of contexts, from describing technical malfunctions to biological processes. It's appropriate whenever you need to indicate that something has ceased its normal operation.

What are some common things that might "stop functioning"?

Many things can "stop functioning", including machines, organs, systems, and organizations. The specific context will determine the most appropriate way to describe what occurred.

How can I make my writing more precise when using "stopped functioning"?

To enhance precision, specify why something "stopped functioning". For example, instead of saying "the computer stopped functioning", you could say "the computer stopped functioning because of a virus".