the system malfunctioned

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "the system malfunctioned" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it when describing a failure or error in a system, such as technology, machinery, or software. Example: "During the presentation, the system malfunctioned, causing a delay in the demonstration."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Wiki

Encyclopedias

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

5 human-written examples

But in fact, Mr. Ryan said yesterday, the system malfunctioned the day after it was installed on June 27.

The New York Times

Philip E. Coyle III, the former director of testing for the Pentagon, said that had the system malfunctioned in a real attack, a battle manager might have continued firing interceptors at a target that had been destroyed, wasting precious weapons.

The New York Times

But an investigation of the Lion Air flight last year suggested the system malfunctioned, and forced the plane's nose down more than 20 times before it crashed into the sea, killing all 189 passengers and crew.

BBC

An investigation of the Lion Air flight last year suggested the system malfunctioned, meaning that the plane's computer forced the nose of the plane down more than 20 times, before it crashed into the sea, killing all 189 passengers and crew.

BBC

We don't investigate how the system malfunctioned.

HuffPost

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

55 human-written examples

Even more importantly, they need safety drivers able to take control back in an instant if the system malfunctions.

The Guardian - Tech

Depending on which part of the system malfunctions, the symptoms can be wide-ranging and confusing, as well as debilitating.

The New York Times - Health

If the system malfunctions, Boeing has always given pilots an easy way to override the automation system, executives said in interviews with the media.

The Washington Post

The paper investigates performance degradation of DRAS under the system malfunctions and addresses the problem of active switching of DRAS from HA to EHA to ensure the reliable actuation and efficient control.

Journal of the Franklin Institute

It will also include new cockpit alerts showing when the system malfunctions.

Los Angeles Times

According to the "malfunction criterion" (the average number of spikes in the last five bursts is smaller than three), the system malfunctions.

BMC Medical Genomics

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "the system malfunctioned", specify which system you are referring to for clarity. For example: "The aircraft's navigation system malfunctioned during the flight".

Common error

Do not use "the system malfunctioned" without providing context. Readers need to know what system experienced the issue to understand the impact.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "the system malfunctioned" functions as a statement describing a failure or operational issue. Ludwig AI indicates that it's a correct and usable phrase. The examples provided illustrate its use in describing failures in various systems.

Expression frequency: Rare

Frequent in

News & Media

40%

Science

40%

Wiki

20%

Less common in

Formal & Business

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Academia

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "the system malfunctioned" is a grammatically correct and comprehensible phrase used to report an operational failure within a system. Ludwig AI confirms its usability in written English. While the phrase is most frequently encountered in news, media and scientific contexts, remember to provide specific context about which system experienced the malfunction. Consider using alternatives like "the system failed" or "the system broke down" for variety.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

the system failed

This alternative is a more general way to describe a system ceasing to function correctly.

the system broke down

This suggests a more significant and complete failure of the system.

the system experienced a glitch

Implies a minor, temporary malfunction.

the system had an error

Indicates that the system produced an incorrect result or outcome.

the system ceased to operate

A formal way of saying that the system stopped working.

the system went haywire

Suggests a chaotic and unpredictable malfunction.

the system crashed

Typically used for computer systems that suddenly stop working.

the system became inoperative

A more technical term for a system that is not functioning.

the system was out of order

A common phrase indicating the system is temporarily unavailable.

the system had a defect

Focuses on an inherent flaw causing the system to fail.

FAQs

What does "the system malfunctioned" mean?

The phrase "the system malfunctioned" means that a particular system, whether it's a mechanical, electrical, or computer-based one, failed to operate correctly or stopped working altogether.

How can I use "the system malfunctioned" in a sentence?

You can use "the system malfunctioned" to describe a failure. For example, "During the experiment, "the cooling system" malfunctioned, causing the equipment to overheat".

What's the difference between "the system malfunctioned" and "the system failed"?

While both phrases indicate a problem, "the system failed" is a more general term for any kind of cessation of function. "The system malfunctioned" suggests a specific issue or error within the system's operation, which may or may not lead to a complete failure.

Are there more formal alternatives to "the system malfunctioned"?

Yes, more formal alternatives include "the system ceased to operate" or "the system became inoperative". These phrases are suitable for technical reports or official documentation.