Basic Details
Word: Malfunction
Part of Speech: Verb
Meaning: To fail to function correctly or to operate improperly.
Synonyms: Fail, breakdown, go wrong
Antonyms: Function, operate, work
Idioms and Phrases
- Go haywire: To become chaotic or out of control, often due to a malfunction. Example: "When the software updated, it went haywire and crashed my computer."
- Hit a snag: To encounter a problem or obstacle, similar to a malfunction. Example: "We were making good progress on the project until we hit a snag with the data."
Usage Examples
Example 1: The printer has a malfunction, causing it not to print any of the documents.
Example 2: During the presentation, the projector malfunctioned, leaving everyone in the dark.
Example 3: If your car starts to malfunction, you should get it checked by a mechanic immediately.
Fun Fact
Did you know that the word "malfunction" comes from the Latin roots "mal-" meaning "bad" and "function" meaning "to perform"? It perfectly describes something that is not performing as it should!
Famous Quote
"Mistakes should be examined, learned from, and discarded; not denied and remembered." John E. Michel. This speaks to the importance of addressing malfunctions in our actions and decisions.
Multiple Choice Questions (MCQs)
1. What does "malfunction" mean?
a) To work perfectly
b) To fail to function correctly
c) To improve
d) To perform a task easily
Answer: b) To fail to function correctly
2. Which of these is a synonym of "malfunction"?
a) Operate
b) Breakdown
c) Succeed
d) Assist
Answer: b) Breakdown
3. Which sentence uses "malfunction" correctly?
a) The toy worked well and had no malfunction.
b) His ideas always malfunction during meetings.
c) The washing machine began to malfunction and wouldn't spin.
d) She fixes all malfunctions with her hands.
Answer: c) The washing machine began to malfunction and wouldn't spin.
4. Which idiom means the same as "malfunction"?
a) Go haywire
b) Run like the wind
c) Bent out of shape
d) Like clockwork
Answer: a) Go haywire
5. What is the opposite of "malfunction"?
a) Break
b) Work
c) Crash
d) Fail
Answer: b) Work
