Not Working: Definition and Synonyms
not working – Definition and Part of Speech
The phrase “not working” typically means something that fails to function or perform its intended task. It can be used as an adjective, as in “the machine is not working,” or a verb form, such as “This device just won’t work.” In these contexts, “working” is the present participle of “work.”
Usage Overview:
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Adjective: Describes something that is malfunctioning.
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Example: “The heater is not working.”
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Verb Form (Participle): Often used in expressions to indicate failure to function or operate.
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Example: “The software just won’t work properly.”
Core Synonyms
Here’s a table of main synonyms, each with their nuances and usage examples:
| Synonym | Brief Definition/Nuance | Example Sentence | Style/Register |
|---|---|---|---|
| Malfunctioning | Specifically indicates a failure in operation. | “The air conditioning unit is malfunctioning again.” | Formal/Technical |
| Broken | Implies something is no longer functional, often due to damage. | “My phone screen is broken.” | Informal/Casual |
| Faulty | Suggests a defect or flaw causing failure. | “The alarm clock was faulty and didn’t go off.” | Formal/Neutral |
| Defective | Indicates inherent flaws that prevent proper function. | “We discovered the product to be defective upon testing.” | Business/Formal |
| Inoperable | Emphasizes something cannot operate or perform its function at all. | “The generator is inoperable after the storm.” | Formal/Technical |
| Dysfunctional | Often used metaphorically for systems or organizations, highlighting inefficiency. | “The department has become dysfunctional due to poor management.” | Academic/Formal |
Usage Notes
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Malfunctioning: Ideal for technical contexts where detailed functionality is discussed.
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Business Writing: “Our inspection revealed several malfunctioning components in the assembly line.”
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Academic Papers: “Research into the causes of technological systems malfunctioning remains a priority.”
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Broken: Commonly used in everyday conversations to describe physical damage.
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Casual Speech: “I need help fixing my broken bike.”
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Faulty: Best for situations where the failure is attributed to errors or defects.
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Customer Service Reports: “A customer reported a faulty device they recently purchased.”
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Defective: Typically used in consumer contexts, especially regarding products and warranties.
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Business Communications: “The shipment was returned due to defective merchandise.”
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Inoperable: Suitable for technical discussions where something is completely non-functional.
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Technical Manuals: “Ensure all parts are operational; otherwise, the device is deemed inoperable.”
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Dysfunctional: Often found in social sciences or organizational analysis contexts.
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Creative Writing/Analysis: “The family was dysfunctional at best, with communication breakdowns at every level.”
Common Pitfalls
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Mixing Physical and Abstract Contexts: The term “broken” is usually for physical items (e.g., broken glass), whereas “dysfunctional” is used more abstractly (e.g., a dysfunctional team).
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Overusing Technical Terms in Casual Contexts: Words like “inoperable” or “malfunctioning” might sound too formal or technical when discussing everyday objects casually.
Final Recap
The phrase “not working” can be replaced by various synonyms depending on context, ranging from the informal and casual (“broken”) to the formal and technical (“inoperable”). Each synonym carries specific nuances that make it suitable for different scenarios. Understanding these differences is key in choosing the right word to convey precise meaning.
Encourage readers to practice using these words in varied contexts, enhancing their ability to communicate effectively across different styles and registers. Whether writing a business report or engaging in casual conversation, selecting the appropriate synonym enriches your vocabulary and sharpens your expressive skills.